Hollyhock ‘Black Mallow’ – Irish Seed
€3.00
Hollyhocks are often associated with cottage flower borders but have a long history as an edible plant that is also used in herbal medicine and dye making. This variety (Alcea rosea var. nigra) has deep purple almost black flowers on strong stems that reach up to 2m. Easy to grow and beneficial to butterflies and bees
Average 25 seeds per packet.
In stock
| Botanical Name | Alcea rosea var. nigra |
|---|---|
| Variety Type | Heirloom aka: ‘Arabian Nights, ‘Black Beauty’ or ‘After Midnight’ |
| Seeds per Packet | Approx. 25 |
| Sow Depth | 1cm |
| Sun Requirements | Full sun to partial shade |
| Spacing | 40-60cm |
| Life Cycle | Biennial, or short lived Perennial |
Hollyhocks are usually described as biennial but typically last a few years. Their first year of growth is for building up energy in a root system before sending up flowering stalks in subsequent years. It is said that from an early sowing they may bloom in the same year.Â
- If sowing directly in the soil wait until the soil has warmed up in early summer. There is no rush as a summer or early autumn sowing gives them plenty of time to get established before flowering the following year
- They can be sown in trays or pots from a bit earlier if kept inside. Sow seeds 1cm deep in cell trays or pots.Â
- When large enough to handle they can be hardened off and transplanted to their final location spaced 40-60cm apart
- As hollyhocks reach 2m they are usually placed at the back of a border or along a south facing wall
- Stems are strong but they may still need support on windy sites
