Hollyhock

Frost Tolerance: Hardy in Phoenix

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part sun

Origin: Eastern Mediterranean

Growth Habits: Annual in Phoenix, tall spikes of flower reaching 9 feet (2.7 m) for some varieties

Flowers: White, light yellow, yellow, light orange, pink, red or purple flowers, up to 6 inches wide (15 cm.), in late spring to late summer

Watering Needs: Regular water

Propagation: Seeds in late summer or spring

Growing 4 to 8 feet high, hollyhocks are an old garden standard, particularly useful for background screening or where vertical accent is desired. They grow best in full sun in deep, rich, well drained soils.
Linnaeus, who named this plant, used both Alcea (Latin form) and Althea(Greek form) from the Greek word for 'to cure'

Blooming Habits:
Some varieties act as reseeding biennials. Annual types are available that flower the first year. Single, semi-double or double flowers, white, yellow, pink, apricot, red, purple to almost black, 3 to 6 inches in diameter (7.5 to 15 cm).

Culture:
Avoid soils that are too rich. Check for rust and spider mites.

Propagation:
Sow in September for spring bloom. Protect the seedlings from snails and slugs. They can also be sown indoor at 50-55°F (10-12°C)