Flower
Hollyhock
Alcea rosea
Cottage giant up to 2.5 m — biennial, ridiculously productive.
Full sun
Moderate
Rich, well-drained
Easy
No
Ornamental
Biennial
Hardy
5 L
20 cm
Flower
Sunflower
Both attract pollinators and tall sunflowers provide afternoon shade for hollyhock's shallow roots in hot climates.
Cut flower
Delphinium
Both tall perennials share identical growing requirements and attract bees without competing for light or root space.
Shrub
Rose
Hollyhock's tall spikes provide vertical accent behind roses while both attract pollinators and share full-sun, well-drained growing requirements.
Situations where this plant is a reliable fit — from someone's kitchen sill to a wind-blown rooftop.
Where to source
Get growing in United Kingdom
Shop local first
The best plants come from a real nursery, and the best trowel comes from the old-fashioned ironmonger down the road — people who know their stock and can advise. Try local first, both for the plant and the kit. It keeps small growers and small hardware shops alive.
Searching near London
For pots, compost, seed trays, twine and other kit — Amazon has the essentials if the local option isn't right. Not a plant nursery; use the local map above for the plant itself.
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