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Hollyhock

Hollyhock, biennial plant belonging to the mallows.

Also known as:
Althea Rose
Rose Mallow

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Photo: Lestat - CC BY-SA 3.0
  • Hollyhocks are not poisonous, even to pets. However, hollyhocks can cause a skin reaction (redness, itching) when touched.

Hollyhock – (Althaea rosea), biennial plant belonging to the mallows (Malvaceae). Originates from the southern regions of Turkey and was imported to Europe by merchants in the sixteenth century. The plant can grow up to three and a half meters in height.
The hollyhock likes a sunny spot in a sheltered location in not too heavy soil. Avoid too moist a location as rust will quickly occur. Hollyhocks with dark-colored flowers also thrive in sandy soils. In dry weather, water early or the flowers will dry out.
Hollyhocks self-seed easily.

Bugs

recognize bug Lime seed bug
Lime seed bug, photo: Hectonichus _ CC BY-SA 3.0

Chlorophyl is eaten away: Lime seed bug (Oxycarenus lavaterae).

Recognizing the hollyhock weevil on a hollyhock
Hollyhock weevils on a hollyhock, photo: Yell Dierick

Black-rimmed holes and spots develop on the leaf: Hollyhock weevil (Rhopalapion longirostre)

Fungi & diseases

recognize rust on hollyhock
Brown to black spots on leaf and stem; flowers are often unaffected, photo: Dirk Sevenants

Brown spots on leaves: a form of rust, a fungus. Cause is often an overly moist habitat. Once rust is found, there is no way to reverse the infestation.

Other

Due to the length of the plant, the hollyhock can break, so a sheltered location is recommended. A stake to which the hollyhock is attached helps prevent the plant from breaking and falling over.