Description

A bold and dramatic favourite that brings height, structure, and a touch of gothic glamour to any garden. Well-suited to UK gardens and great for both beginners and experienced growers.

Highlights:

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  Flowering Season: June to September (from second year)


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  Height & Spread: Up to 180cm height | 40–60cm spread


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  Position: Full sun | Moist, fertile, well-drained soil


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  Great for: Cottage gardens, back borders, fences and walls, pollinator-friendly planting

Why We Love It:

Hollyhock ‘Black’ (Alcea rosea) is a striking variety with tall flower spikes covered in deep maroon-black, almost velvet-like blooms. These statuesque biennials are perfect for adding dramatic flair to the back of a border or along walls and fences. Loved by bees and butterflies, they’re also surprisingly easy to grow and will self-seed gently for years of summer colour.

Planting & Care Tips:

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  When to Plant: Sow indoors from February to April, or direct sow from May to July for flowering the following year


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  Where to Plant: Sunny, sheltered spot with support from walls, trellises, or canes


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  Spacing: 45–60cm apart


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  Care Notes: Water regularly in dry spells, stake taller plants to prevent wind damage, and cut back after flowering. Allow some plants to self-seed or collect seed to replant

The Nunhead Gardener Recommends:

Beautiful paired with foxgloves, delphiniums, and cosmos in a cottage-style border. Try planting along a sunny fence in South London gardens for instant vertical impact and pollinator appeal.

Please note:

Images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.