Black Hollyhock was described as early as 1629 by John Parkinson as being “of a darke red like black blood,” an apt description for the large single flowers that grace this plant in June and July. This biennial or short-lived perennial will form large rosettes of round, hairy leaves by autumn, and will bloom the following summer.

Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date at 70 degrees F. To improve germination, pretreat seeds with cold, moist stratification for 10 days before sowing. Transplant to 3″ pots once they have several true leaves, then harden off and transplant outdoors after last frost. Approximately 15-20 Alcea rosea nigra seeds per packet.