Red Common Hollyhock

Alcea rosea, the common hollyhock, is an ornamental plant in the family Malvaceae. It was imported into Europe from southwestern China during, or possibly before, the 15th century. William Turner, a herbalist of the time, gave it the name "holyoke" from which the English name derives. is variously described as a biennial (having a two-year life cycle). It frequently self-sows, which may create a perception that the plants are perennial.] The plant may flower during its first year when sown early. It will grow in a wide range of soils, and can easily reach a height of about 2.4 m.
The darker red variety seems to favor sandy soils, while the lighter colour seems to favor clay soils. The plants are easily grown from seed, and readily self-seed.
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