The Hollyhock flower, scientifically known as Alcea rosea, is a classic garden plant admired for its tall spikes and colorful blooms. Normal hollyhock flowers have been grown for centuries in cottage gardens, temple courtyards, and ornamental landscapes. Due to their easy maintenance and stunning appearance, hollyhocks remain a favorite among gardeners across India and around the world.
This article explains what a hollyhock flower is, how to grow it, and how it differs from hybrid varieties.
A normal hollyhock is a naturally pollinated plant grown from open-pollinated seeds. Unlike hybrids, these plants:
Grow in single or semi-double flower forms
Produce flowers in traditional colors such as pink, red, yellow, white, and maroon
Can self-seed easily
Maintain classic plant characteristics over generations
Normal hollyhocks are ideal for home gardens, boundary walls, and flower beds.
Common Name: Hollyhock
Scientific Name: Alcea rosea
Plant Type: Biennial / Short-lived perennial
Height: 5 to 8 feet
Bloom Season: Winter to early summer
Normal hollyhock plants grow best in sunny, open locations.
Ideal conditions:
🌞 Full sunlight (minimum 6 hours)
🌱 Well-drained loamy soil
🌡 Moderate temperature (15°C–30°C)
💧 Regular but light watering
Avoid waterlogged soil, as it can cause root rot and fungal diseases.
Best sowing time: October–November or February–March
Sow seeds directly in soil or seed trays
Cover lightly with soil and water gently
Seeds germinate within 7–12 days.
Thin seedlings to maintain spacing of 45–60 cm
Water 2–3 times per week
Apply organic compost every month
Provide support for tall stems
Normal hollyhocks usually bloom in the second year, though some may flower earlier.
🌸 Pink
🌸 White
🌸 Yellow
🌸 Red
🌸 Purple
🌸 Light maroon
These colors may vary naturally due to open pollination.
Feature Normal Hollyhock Hybrid Hollyhock
Seed type Open-pollinated Controlled cross
Flower uniformity Variable More uniform
Color variety Traditional Advanced shades
Seed saving Yes Not always reliable
👉 To learn advanced breeding techniques, read our detailed guide on
How to Grow Hollyhock Flower in Hybrid Form
Rust disease: Remove affected leaves and spray neem oil
Weak flowering: Ensure full sunlight
Pest attack: Use organic insecticides
✔ Ornamental gardening
✔ Boundary and wall decoration
✔ Pollinator-friendly gardens
✔ Traditional cottage landscaping
Hollyhock flowers also attract bees and butterflies, improving garden biodiversity.
The Hollyhock flower is a timeless garden plant that combines beauty, height, and simplicity. Easy to grow and maintain, it is perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. For those seeking new colors or stronger plant traits, hybrid hollyhock cultivation offers an advanced option.
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