Black Hollyhock (Alcea rosea nigra) 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.
7.07.2006
Like black blood
A rather gruesome description for a flower that's really very pretty. I was a bit skeptical when I bought these plants last year. I love old-fashioned flowers like hollyhocks, but BLACK?? Who would want black flowers? I didn't know what to expect and the plants were very young so I didn't get a chance to see what they looked like until now. Yes, they're unusual, but they look spectacular against the white of my house. And they aren't really black—more like a very dark burgundy.
Black Hollyhock (Alcea rosea nigra) 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.
Black Hollyhock (Alcea rosea nigra) 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.
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7 comments:
Those are spectacular, especially with the red flowers in front. Really those are something special.
My mom planted some black hollihocks a couple of years ago, and they really are spectactular! Beautiful photo - thanks for sharing!
Those are really striking. I would plan black flowers, just because they are so different.
My goal next year is to have a pink garden. My husband might kill me, but I want to plant a bunch of pink stuff!
I love black hollyhocks. I've also taken to planting black pansies (which are VERY, very dark purple). If you use them to make sorbet, you end up with a gorgeous, deep violet colored dessert that tastes subtly of wintergreen...
Hi, I stumbled upon your blog via a google search for hollyhocks.
Oh do tell where you got these seeds! I LOVE them they're gorgeous.. black hollyhocks?? Be still, my heart!
These were purchased as plants at my local garden center but I just did a google search for "seeds for black hollyhocks" and there were tons of options. It sounds like if you plant seed they won't flower until the second year.
This is a pretty old post now and they did not make it to the next year. We had a very late snow the following spring and I think that may have done them in. I'd definitely try them again, though.
I realize this was an old post, but I still thought it deserved a comment! I'm sorry they didn't last. Crazy how the garden changes!! Thanks for the info. Cheers!
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