Hollyhock. Vigorous, upright perennial with rounded light green leaves bearing richly coloured, near-black, single flowers, each with a yellow throat. Height 2m. Spread 60cm. Flowers May to July. Full sun. Hardy.
Bring dramatic elegance to your garden with Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’, a striking hollyhock known for its near-black blooms and towering height. Follow this detailed guide to help your Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ thrive and flourish year after year.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This timing allows roots to establish before the plant’s tall flower spikes emerge, ensuring a strong, upright growth.
Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn allows your Alcea to settle in before winter, leading to a robust display the following summer.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ thrives in full sun. Choose a bright, sheltered spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage vigorous flowering.
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil is essential. Although tolerant of various soil types, Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ performs best in soil enriched with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Ground: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and of equal depth.
Soil Enrichment: Mix in compost to improve structure and nutrient levels—ideal for Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ to grow tall and strong.
Planting: Set the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill and firm the soil gently.
Water Well: After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Avoid overly soggy conditions.
Watering Requirements
During Growth: Water your Alcea regularly during dry periods, especially as it establishes and during flowering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly in late autumn and winter. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.
Feeding
Spring Feed: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy foliage and flower spike development in Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’.
Mid-Summer Boost: A liquid feed during blooming supports continued flowering and plant strength.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong the flowering season and maintain tidy growth. Deadheading also helps direct energy back into the plant.
Post-Flowering Cutback: In late summer or early autumn, cut stems down to ground level after flowering ends. This keeps your Alcea neat and prepares it for next year.
Mulching
Spring Mulch: Apply a generous mulch of compost or bark around the base of Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Winter Protection: In colder months, mulch again to protect roots from extreme temperatures and frost heave.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Due to its tall growth, Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ benefits from staking. Secure stems with soft ties to prevent snapping in wind or heavy rain.
Final Tips
Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ is a low-maintenance, high-impact perennial perfect for cottage gardens, borders, or backdrops. Its dark, velvety flowers contrast beautifully with lighter companions and attract pollinators all summer long. With proper care and attention, your Alcea will return year after year, adding drama and height to your garden with ease.
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