Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) are towering, upright biennials or short-lived perennials grown for their tall flower spikes (often reaching 5 to 7 feet in height) and their strong presence in the garden or flower field. Lately, hollyhocks have entered the cut flower scene, and we understand why! They might not have the longest vase life, at around 7 days, and it may take some experimentation to achieve hydration post-harvest (try sealing the cut ends with a flame or hot water), but their uniqueness and incredible beauty make the extra effort worth it. This is a great option for local markets, as hollyhocks aren't grown en masse and shipped in from other countries - your florists will appreciate the novelty. They thrive in full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil, and are hardy in USDA zones 3-9, 10 if you're lucky - pretty much all of the north, central and southwestern US. In the hot humid south, success will vary. Most bloom in their second year, so a fall planting should produce flowers the following year. Widely used for back-of-the-border plantings, living privacy screens, and vertical interest, they likely bring about a sense of nostalgia when you see them growing against an old barn out in the country. Tall, top-heavy plants may benefit from staking to avoid bent stems, and good air circulation (and a preventative fungicide) to reduce the risk of rust. Hollyhocks will self-sow if left to go to seed, but successive generations won't always look like the parent plants. Although technically a biennial, they might perennialize if conditions are right - but don't expect their return every spring. For the longest vase life, harvest when the bottom flowers are open and the remaining spike is still in bud. They can send up a second flush of flowers after the first is harvested - cut back to about a foot above the ground at harvest to encourage re-growth. There are a plethora of hollyhock varieties out there, but we are offering mostly double forms in some of the most delectable colors, highly sought in the cut flower market.

Please note that perennial orders must be placed separately from other plug orders. The minimum order is two trays, which may be mixed and matched with all other perennials in this collection. Learn more about our perennial program here.