Hollyhock
alcea setosa
Also known as: ["Hollyhock"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial plant known for its large, showy flowers and tall spikes.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Alcea |
| Botanical Name: | Alcea setosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during flowering; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyModerate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid compacted soil; ensure good aeration; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root division; stem cuttings can be challenging but possible.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for seeds or divisions; cuttings can be taken in late spring.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light for cuttings; consistent warmth for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite for cuttings.
Hormone
Optional for cuttings, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks; cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back after flowering to rejuvenate.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as needed; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAlcea setosa is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAlcea setosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to canines when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAlcea setosa is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Alcea setosa grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Q: Does Alcea setosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Alcea setosa suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is relatively easy to grow and care for.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
