Alcea rosea

The common hollyhock has been cultivated for such a long time that it is difficult to make out exactly where its origin lies. Brought to Southern Europe in the 15ᵗʰ century from Turkey, it may have originally come from the south-western parts of China. However, it has been suggested that the species originated as cultivar, possibly with the biennial hollyhock, Alcea biennis, as original species. Despite its specific epithet being rosea, pink, the common hollyhock can be found in a range of colours, from white to red, purple, or yellow, and even reddish or blueish black.

 

Like much of the Malvaceae family, species in the Alcea genus have been identified as belonging to one or another genus that had been known earlier. It had been placed both in the genus Malva and, more frequently, Althaea. Some of the attributions, like Althaea mexicana or A. caribiana are rather curious, given its known origins. These older classifications are mirrored in common names found in some languages. The name hollyhock is believed to have originated in the Anglo-Saxon holy-hoc or holy mallow. It is used as English common name for the whole Alcea genus.

 

Like many species in its family, the common hollyhock has been used in different cuisines and folk medicines, and in the case of Alcea rosea 'Nigra', the reddish black variety, as dye for food and drinks as well as for fabrics.

 

Alcea rosea has escaped cultivation in many parts but does not seem to have invasive tendencies.

 

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