Althaea rosea (L.) Cav.
Biennial or perennial with lobed leaves and tall spikes, to 3m or more, of large single or double flowers, to 12cm across, in shades of red, white and purple. Ancient garden plant, single and double varieties grown in European gardens since at least the 16th century. [RHSD, Hortus].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘A native of China; introduced [to Britain] in 1753, and now an universal inhabitant of the garden and shrubbery in all the temperate parts of Europe, where it is a hardy biennial and greatly admired for its stately growth, and the size and profusion and rich and varied colour of the blossoms, which continue to flower in succession from June till a late period in autumn. Hollyhocks succeed too in any soil, but no where perhaps so perfectly as in the vicinity of the sea.’ [BM t.3198/1832].
History at Camden Park
German seed of 15 varieties of the double Hollyhock was ordered from James Carter, Seedsman and Florist, of High Holborn, on April 8th, 1846. [MP A2933-1, p.128]. Hollyhocks are not listed in any of the catalogues.
Notes
Published Feb 01, 2009 - 03:18 PM | Last updated Jul 27, 2010 - 04:37 PM
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Althaea rosea (L.) Cav. | BM t.3198/1832 | BHL
| Family | Malvaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | Uncertain origin, probably Asia |
| Synonyms |
|
| Common Name | Hollyhock |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Double Hollyhock |
| Confidence level | high |