Living in New Mexico for a number of years now, I’ve developed a new appreciation for hollyhocks. There were some hollyhocks around as I was growing up in Virginia, but they never seemed very interesting. I remember them growing in the cracks in sidewalks and other odd spots. Although hollyhocks might have been planted in gardens, too, the sort of weird weedy plant of my childhood memories left a lasting impression.

Imagine my shock and surprise to rediscover hollyhocks in New Mexico as gorgeous plants that are celebrated in many media and art forms. Yes, they still grow in cracks in the sidewalk, but there are beautiful groupings of hollyhocks in bright colors along the sides buildings and flourishing in gardens too!

Hollyhocks are technically known as Alcea rosea. They are members of the mallow family and probably originated in China and the far east a very long time ago. They have been growing in borders and gardens in this country since Victorian times. I read somewhere that they are a perfect example of an old fashioned cottage garden flower.

Hollyhocks are biennials that don’t bloom the first year. I’ve read that planting seed for a couple of years will almost definitely assure a lasting succession of flowering plants that reseed themselves. They want full sun and prefer a rich moist soil. The plants grow to be between five and 9 feet high, but might grow taller.

Hollyhocks can be found in a variety of colors. The pink and pastel flowers range from a delicate blush or a soft apricot to vibrant corals and deep magenta shades. There are also reds & purples - classic crimson, rich scarlet, burgundy, lavender, and deep plum. These flowers also come in whites and a variety of yellows, including ivory, cream, bright lemon yellow, and a soft buttery yellow.

I’ve lived here for several years now. The hollyhocks I see here are bursting with life and I never tire of them. I’ve come to celebrate them as quintessential New Mexico.

In Celebration of Hollyhocks

Tabby Cats