Alcea rosea |
Native Region: Europe
Preferred Climate: Full to semi sun; well draining rich humus soil.
Harvest Date: Tuesday 18 January, 2011
Seed count: 25-30
Description:
Tall stately flower spikes soar 2 meters or more in height from a basal clump of leaves. Classed as a biennial, so it produces leaves and a good root system before flowering in its second year. Having a plantation of even and odd years will allow for bloom every year all summer long. Open pollinated so the colours might vary from the palest of pink, yellow to bold scarlets. Excellent for screening or fences.
Notes:
An acient herb used for food and as medicine. Its origins cannot be pinpointed as its popularity has lead to its enhanced growing range. If anything, it cannot grow in the shade.
Cultivation:
Soak seed 24 hours. Use a good quality enriched potting medium and sow 6mm deep. Germinates in 2-3 weeks at 14-20 C. Keep moist. Transplant when danger of frost has past. Don't use bottom heat for these as it causes seed to enter deep dormancy. If starting outdoors, can be sown directly into the bed either in early fall or in spring after frost has past.
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