Alcea Rosea Nigra | Hollyhock

Towering spires open from the base upwards to reveal yellow-centred, chocolate-maroon flowers. Perfect for providing vertical interest in a sunny, well-drained border, hollyhocks are traditionally associated with cottage gardens, however the dramatic colouring of this variety works equally well in contemporary planting schemes. Growing instructions: Under glass, sow seeds 2mm deep in a good quality seed compost and keep moist (but not wet) until they germinate. Thin out when they are large enough to handle and pot on. Gradually harden off before planting out after all risk of frost has passed. Alternatively, sow later in the year directly into a well-prepared bed. Seeds sown in autumn have a better chance of producing flowers in their first summer, while others usually won't flower until the following year. Once established water well during dry spells. All hollyhocks are prone to rust and organic control may be obtained by a weekly spray at the beginning of the growing season with neem oil, sulphur, or copper. The undersides of the leaves must be treated. In autumn cut the plants back to 15cm (6in) from the ground. Sow: April to September Flowering: June to August