Hollyhock 'Singles Mix' - Vintage Varieties Unite as One!
Hollyhock ficifolia ‘Singles Mix’ brings a nostalgic cottage garden feel with its tall spires of open, single blooms in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white. This fig-leaved variety is more resistant to rust, making it easier to grow in a wider range of climates. Each plant produces sturdy stems that can reach up to six feet tall, supporting flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Because it thrives in sunny spots and self-seeds lightly, this hollyhock provides a natural, informal charm that returns season after season.
Applications in the Garden
Adds vertical height and structure to cottage or farmhouse-style borders
Works beautifully along fences, walls, and garden backdrops
Excellent for pollinator gardens, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Blends well with foxglove, delphinium, and other tall early-summer bloomers
Useful in informal or naturalized plantings where self-seeding is welcome
Provides strong visual impact when planted in groups or mixed color drifts
Planting Tips
Choose a sunny location with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day
Plant in rich, well-drained soil; hollyhocks appreciate consistent moisture but not soggy roots
Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow good air circulation and reduce disease pressure
Water deeply once a week during dry periods, especially when young plants are establishing
Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to tidy the plant and reduce unwanted self-seeding
Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost in early spring to encourage robust growth
Stake taller stems in windy areas to prevent breakage and keep flowers upright
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Alcea Ficifolia Mix |
| Variety Name: | Ficifolia Single Mix |
| Height: | 48″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-8 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| 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 Ficifolia
Rust on leaves: Common in hollyhocks; improve airflow, water at soil level, and remove infected foliage promptly
Weak or falling stems: Often from wind exposure; stake early in the season for support
Few or no blooms: Ensure full sun and avoid overfertilizing, which encourages leaf growth instead of flowers
Wilting despite moisture: May indicate root rot from poorly drained soil; replant in a well-drained site
Excessive self-seeding: Cut spent flower spikes before seeds mature to control spread
Holes in leaves: Japanese beetles or caterpillars may feed on foliage; inspect regularly and handpick pests
FAQ - Hollyhock
Q: Are hollyhocks perennials or biennials?
A: Alcea ficifolia is a short-lived perennial that behaves much like a biennial, often flowering heavily in its second year and reseeding for continued displays.
Q: How tall do hollyhocks grow?
A: Most reach 5–6 feet tall, though height can vary with soil fertility and moisture.
Q: Are hollyhocks deer resistant?
A: Yes, hollyhocks are generally deer resistant, though young plants may occasionally be nibbled.
Q: Are hollyhocks toxic to pets or humans?
A: No, hollyhocks are non-toxic and considered safe around pets and people.
Q: Can hollyhocks grow in containers?
A: They can, but because of their deep roots and height, they perform best in the ground or very large pots.