Hollyhock ‘Las Vegas Lights’ – Bet Showstopping Blooms!
Hollyhock ‘Las Vegas Lights’ (Alcea rosea) is a striking perennial known for its tall spires of large, ruffled blooms in a vivid mix of yellow, pink, red, and white. These bold, old-fashioned flowers rise high above their rounded foliage, creating a dramatic vertical accent in borders and cottage-style plantings. This variety of hollyhock is particularly valued for its vibrant color mix and robust garden presence, bringing nostalgic charm to sunny landscapes. Long loved by pollinators, hollyhocks are a reliable choice for gardeners seeking both height and habitat value in their summer displays.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for the back of mixed borders or along fences and walls
Adds vertical structure and cottage-garden charm to summer plantings
Pairs beautifully with delphinium, foxglove, or shasta daisy for a layered look
Ideal for wildlife gardens—flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Can be grown as a showy screen or backdrop for shorter perennials
Works well in cut flower arrangements for bold, rustic appeal
Planting Tips - Hollyhock
Choose a full-sun location with rich, well-drained soil
Space plants about 18–24 inches apart to allow airflow and reduce mildew risk
Water deeply during dry spells, but avoid keeping soil constantly wet
Support tall stems if exposed to wind or heavy rain to prevent breakage
Remove faded blooms to encourage continued flowering
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Alcea Ficifolia |
| Variety Name: | Las Vegas Lights |
| Height: | 48″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-8 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Biennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring or Fall |
| Bloom Season: | Summer – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Only blooms once |
| Bloom Duration: | 2-3 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Well-drained soil with pH of 6.0-8.0 |
| Water Requirements: | Average to high |
Troubleshooting - Hollyhock
Rust (orange spots on leaves): A common hollyhock issue; remove affected leaves promptly and avoid overhead watering
Powdery mildew: Encouraged by humidity and poor air circulation; space plants well and use drip irrigation
Flopping stems: Caused by wind or overfertilization; provide light staking and avoid high-nitrogen feedings
Few blooms: Usually from inadequate sunlight or poor soil; move to a sunnier location and enrich soil with compost
Holes in leaves: Often from Japanese beetles or caterpillars; handpick pests or use an organic insecticidal soap if needed
FAQ
Q: Are hollyhocks annuals or perennials?
A: Hollyhocks are technically short-lived perennials or biennials, often blooming heavily in their second year and reseeding themselves naturally for recurring color.
Q: Are hollyhocks toxic to pets or people?
A: No, hollyhocks are considered non-toxic, though contact with the fuzzy leaves may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Q: How tall do they grow?
A: Mature plants typically reach 5–7 feet tall, making them excellent for background plantings and garden borders.
Q: Do hollyhocks reseed?
A: Yes, they readily self-seed, helping to maintain a natural stand of plants year after year.