Hollyhock (Dark Maroon) - Alcea ficifolia

Also known as the fig leaf hollyhock, fig hollyhock and Antwerp hollyhock.

This is no ordinary hollyhock! Alcea ficifolia is a hardy perennial unlike the common variety which is biennial.

Alcea ficifolia is a lesser known hollyhock species native to Siberia. A more vigorous species with distinctive large lobed rounded fig-leaf type foliage. Alcea ficifolia produce many upright stems emerging from the base, resulting in a bushy form. Cut back after blooming. This variety is shown to have the best levels of resistance to rust. Plants when in flower can be over 2m in height.

Sow seeds in autumn either direct or into pots. Keep damp but not wet. Seeds will germinate in spring when the soil warms up.

Excellent cut flower. Harvest stems when blooms are opening, removing lower leaves that would sit in water. Cut the stem as close to the base of the plant as possible for more blooms. Immediately after cutting, use an open flame (gas stove, candle) to char the very end of the stem for a few seconds, just enough to blacken it but not turn it to ash. Next submerge the seared stems in a deep bucket of warm water for about 15 minutes. Flower are now ready to be used.

Height to 2m.

Seeds currently available.

$5.00 - 20 open pollinated seeds

$4.00 - postage within Australia

Email to order - fascinatingbotanicals@gmail.com

Payment - Bank Deposit or Paypal