× Alcalthaea suffrutescens 'Parkallee'
shrubby hollyhock (syn. Alcea × Althaea Parkallee)
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- Standard £5.95
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately-fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: July to November
- Hardiness: fully hardy
A cross between hollyhock (Alcea spp.) and an Althaea, this tall plant puts on a prolific display of flowers, that no longer suffers rust like its forebear. ‘Parkallee’ forms a spreading vase shape, and its stems will be evenly studded with open bowl-shaped flowers from July to November. Each flower emerges a light apricot and fades to a buttermilk-cream as it matures. The centre of each is speckled with bronze stamens and a central frill of tiny petals.
Water well during dry spells. In autumn, trim the stems back to within 50-60cm from the ground, and as you see new growth breaking through in spring, you can cut it back harder if desired. Cutting it back a little later in the year will help keep it more compact. Avoid excessive winter wet.