× Alcalthaea suffrutescens 'Parkrondell'
shrubby hollyhock (syn. Alcea)
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-growing
- Flowering period: July to October
- Hardiness: fully hardy
'Parkrondell' is a cross between a hollyhock and mallow, with soft-pink, cup-shaped blooms with fine veins and curled and crumpled inner petals. The floral display lasts from midsummer until the frosts and will hold their form and colour well in a vase. - Garden care: When planting 'Parkrondell' add some well-rotted compost and mycorrhizal fungi into the planting hole. Water well during dry spells. In autumn, trim the stems back to within 50-60cm from the ground, and as new growth breaks in spring, cut it back harder if desired. Cutting it back a little later in the year will help keep it more compact. Protect against excessively wet weather in winter.