Alcea - rosea / 'Blacknight' Hollyhocks

Alcea rosea 'Blacknight', commonly known as Hollyhock, is a stunning biennial or short-lived perennial that produces striking, dark purple-black flowers on tall spikes that can reach up to 6 feet in height. This plant is highly valued for its ornamental value, providing a bold and dramatic statement in the garden.

The Alcea rosea 'Blacknight' is a hardy plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is ideal for use in cottage gardens, mixed borders, and as a backdrop for lower-growing plants. It is also commonly used as a cut flower due to its striking blooms.

This particular cultivar is highly attractive due to its unique, dark purple-black flowers that bloom in mid-summer. The tall spikes are covered in numerous large flowers that are a favorite of bees and other pollinators. The foliage is also highly ornamental, forming a rosette of large, dark green leaves that provide an excellent backdrop for the stunning blooms.

The Alcea rosea 'Blacknight' is also highly valued for its historical significance. Hollyhocks have been grown for centuries, and are often associated with traditional English cottage gardens. They were also a popular medicinal plant in medieval times, and are still used today for their soothing properties.

Overall, the Alcea rosea 'Blacknight' is an excellent addition to any garden, offering beauty and intrigue with its unique blooms and historical significance. Its tall stature and dramatic blooms make it a standout plant in any setting.