Perennial
Hollyhock
Alcea
Varieties We Carry
StandardAlcea
Sizes & Pricing
Seed PackFrom$2.99
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size4-8 feet × 2-3 feet
About Hollyhock
Hollyhock (Alcea spp.) is a tall biennial or short-lived perennial producing towering spikes of large, satiny flowers in white, pink, red, and burgundy. In NE Florida, plant in fall for winter-into-spring bloom — it performs best in the cooler season and struggles in summer heat. A cottage-garden classic that attracts bees and butterflies. Starting at $2.99.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Winter, Spring
- Flower Color
- White, Yellow, Red, Pink, Purple, Multi
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Hollyhock requires full sun — at least 6 hours daily. In NE Florida, plant in a location with good air circulation to reduce fungal disease; avoid overly shaded spots where rust disease thrives in the humid climate.
Water
Water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry and reduce the risk of hollyhock rust, which is the primary disease problem in Florida's humid climate. Maintain moderate, consistent moisture; avoid waterlogging. Drought stress shortens the bloom period.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in loamy, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. In NE Florida, amend sandy soil with compost to improve moisture retention. Fertilize at planting with a balanced slow-release fertilizer; avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes foliage over flowers.
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Common questions
Is Hollyhock a good plant for St. Augustine?
Hollyhock is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with low salt tolerance, reaching 4-8 feet × 2-3 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.