Alcea rosea

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Alcea rosea
Also known as: Hollyhock

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer
Format: Large
Height: 2.40 m
Width: 0.60 m
Growth Rate: Fast
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 5-9
Soil Moisture:
Permeable, Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Flowers, Tea, Root, Sprouts
Edibility:
(3)
Medicinal:
(2)
Features:
Dye, Oil

Description

Young leaves can be eaten both raw and cooked, but their texture is not very appealing. They are often used as herbs, although they have only a mild flavor. These leaves can be finely chopped to be added to salads. The inner part of young stems can be eaten raw, and the petals and buds can also be added raw to salads. The root provides nutritious starch, and a refreshing tea can be made from the petals.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/07
End of Harvest: 30/09

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild Description
Broussonetia kazinoki
Kozo
Provides structural support for tall plants, helping to stabilize them during high winds.
Corylus avellana
Hazel
Provides shade and reduces competition for light, allowing Alcea rosea to thrive.
Aegopodium podagraria
Ground Elder, Bishop's goutweed, Goutweed, Bishop's Weed
Forms a dense ground cover that helps to suppress weeds around Alcea rosea.
Rosa rubiginosa
Sweet Briar, Sweetbriar rose
Attracts beneficial insects like pollinators, enhancing the overall biodiversity of the area.
Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn, Oneseed hawthorn
Offers protection from harsh winds and contributes to soil health with its leaf litter.
Taxus baccata
Yew, English yew, Common Yew
Adds beauty and diversity to the garden while providing habitat for wildlife.