Hollyhock Nigra Alcea Rosea is a hardy biennial or short-lived perennial. For the early establishment, Hollyhock Nigra seeds can be started indoors, cold frame, or unheated greenhouse in winter. Also called The Watchman and Black Hollyhock, this Alcea Rosea is a single flowered Hollyhock that produces the tall spikes of mysterious, deep-maroon, almost black, cup-shaped blooms. Flowering Alcea Rosea Nigra creates a dramatic effect as a background plant blooming in summer and attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
Hollyhock Nigra looks best in the back of a sunny border, and this biennial flower is often planted in cutting and cottage gardens, along fences and walls. Hollyhock looks fabulous when it is grown in groups. Alcea Rosea seeds have to be covered just lightly with soil, and once established Black Hollyhock easily adapts to various soil conditions preferring average, moist, well-drained soil and grows best in full sun tolerating some partial shade. Hollyhock easily self-seeds itself re-growing from seeds every year, and this plant can establish itself as a short-leaved perennial in mild climates.
PLANT PROFILE
Season: Biennial
Height: 60-72 Inches
Bloom Season: Summer
Environment: Sun/Partial Shade
Soil Type: Rich/Average/Moist well-drained, pH 6.1-7.8
USDA Zones: 3-10
PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS
Sow Indoors: Spring (6-8 weeks before last frost)
Sow Outdoors: Spring/Fall
Seed Depth: 1/8 Inch
Germination Time: 21-28 Days
