Hollyhock The Watchman
Alcea rosea
Biennial. From a distance, the dark color of The Watchman is as black as the moonless night sky, but on closer inspection you can see its rich purplish burgundy cast. Seductive towers of flowers for bees and butterflies make an excellent backdrop for pink, red, yellow or white flowers. Instructions inside packet for making old-fashioned hollyhock dolls.
Full sun. Blooms summer.
Height: 5' - 6' tall
Days to Emerge: 10 days
Seed Depth: Press into surface
Seed Spacing: A group of 5 seeds every 2'
Thinning: When 3" tall, thin to 1 every 2'
When to sow outside: Recommended. 1 to 2 weeks after average last frost, or 1 to 2 weeks before average first fall frost.
When to start inside: 6 to 8 weeks before average last frost; transplant before taproot hits bottom of pot.
Special Germination Instructions: Seeds require light to germinate; do not cover with soil.
Artist: Carolyn Crawford