Alcea rugosa | Perennial Resource

Common Name: Russian Hollyhock

An extremely hardy hollyhock native to Ukraine. This species has gained popularity lately due to its greater resistance to hollyhock rust.

In midsummer, large, single, soft yellow flowers appear on strong, hairy stalks. The leaves are deeply lobed in classic alcea form. This plant looks terrific when planted en masse.

Feel free to grow hollyhocks under Black Walnut trees; they are tolerant of the toxic juglone that is emitted through the trees' roots. Alcea rugosa should be treated as a biennial or short-lived perennial.

Height:

5.0-6.0 Feet

Spread:

2.0-3.0 Feet

Hardiness Zones:

2,3,4,5,6,7

Flower Color:

Yellow/Gold Shades

Foliage Color:

Green shades

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Average Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Average Soil Quality Fertile Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0) Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0) Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)

Bloomtime:

Midsummer

Attracts Wings:

Attracts Butterflies Attracts Hummingbirds

Seasonal Interest:

Dried Seed Heads

Growth Rate:

Rapid

Garden Style:

Cottage Eclectic

Other Features:

Border Plant Cut Flower Cut Foliage Dried Flower Mass Planting Specimen Focal Point

Origin:

Not Native to North America

Hollyhocks provide excellent architectural height in the garden and make good backdrops for lower growing perennials. Try growing them in the cottage garden style by planting them up against a wall or picket fence. Though their stalks are very strong, they may need to be staked if they are planted in a windy site.

Hollyhocks prefer rich, moist, well-drained soil ; providing these conditions will help the plants resist disease. They need full sun to really perform in the landscape. Watch for Japanese Beetles; this plant is one of their favorites!

Fun Facts

Did you know that Hollyhock flowers are edible? Though they don't have much flavor, they make a showy edible garnish for summer dishes.

Characteristics