Guest post by Katrina & Clayton
Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) are iconic cottage garden plants, loved for their tall flower spikes, rich colours and traditional charm. Less widely known is that hollyhocks are also edible flowers, valued for their mild flavour, soothing properties and visual appeal in both sweet and savoury dishes. For Scottish gardeners, hollyhocks are particularly well suited: they tolerate cool Summers, cope with wind when well sited and thrive in fertile soils. With thoughtful planting and care, hollyhocks can become both a striking ornamental feature AND a productive edible flower in the garden.
The flowers are the primary edible part of the hollyhock plant. Petals have a mild, slightly sweet flavour and can be eaten fresh or dried. They are commonly used as decorative garnishes on salads, desserts, cakes and drinks. The darker coloured varieties are especially valued for their natural pigments, which can be used to colour teas, syrups and baking.
Young leaves are also edible and have traditionally been used in herbal remedies, though they are less commonly eaten than the flowers. Leaves and flowers contain mucilage, which gives them soothing properties and makes them useful in teas for sore throats or digestive discomfort. Only harvest from plants grown organically and in clean environments.
Growing Conditions and Soil
Hollyhocks grow best in cool, temperate climates, making Scotland an ideal place for them to flourish. They prefer a sunny position, ideally receiving at least six hours of sunlight each day. Full sun encourages strong stems, vibrant flowers and reduces the risk of fungal diseases such as rust, which can be common in damp conditions. While hollyhocks tolerate light shade, too little sunlight can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
Soil quality is particularly important for successful hollyhock growth. They thrive in deep, fertile, well drained soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Rich soils support the development of their long taproots, which anchor tall plants and help them access nutrients. In Scotland, where heavy clay soils are common, improving drainage with compost, well rotted manure or Caledonian Green Goodness or using large pots or raised beds. A sheltered position against a wall or fence can also help protect tall flower spikes from strong winds.
Planting Times in Scotland
Hollyhocks can be grown from seed, young plants or self sown volunteers and timing plays a key role in success. In Scotland, seeds can be sown indoors in early spring (March to April) or directly outdoors from late May onwards, once the risk of hard frost has passed. Autumn sowing is also possible in milder regions and often results in stronger plants that flower earlier the following year.
Hollyhocks are typically biennial, meaning they produce leaves in their first year and flower in their second. However, many modern varieties behave as short lived perennials when well cared for. When planting young plants, space them generously, around 45-60 cm apart to allow for good airflow and mature growth. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture and protect developing roots.
Pruning Hollyhocks
Pruning hollyhocks helps maintain plant health and encourages prolonged flowering. During the growing season, deadheading spent blooms prevents energy being diverted into seed production and can extend the flowering period. Removing faded flowers also improves the plant’s appearance and reduces the risk of disease.
At the end of the flowering season, stems can be cut back to ground level once they have finished blooming. This is best done in late Autumn or early Winter, once foliage has died back. Leaving some seed heads in place can encourage self seeding if you wish to maintain hollyhocks naturally in your garden. In Spring, remove any dead or damaged growth to make way for new shoots.
A reliable method of increasing hollyhocks is to allow them to self seed naturally. In Scotland’s climate, self sown plants often establish well and adapt to local conditions. Collecting and sowing seed also allows gardeners to maintain specific colours or varieties.
Caring for Hollyhocks
Hollyhocks require regular care to thrive, particularly in Scotland’s damp climate. Consistent watering is important during dry spells, especially for young plants but avoid overwatering, as soggy soil encourages root rot. Mulching with compost or leaf mould helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil structure.
One of the most common challenges when growing hollyhocks is hollyhock rust, a fungal disease that thrives in moist conditions. To reduce risk, ensure good airflow by spacing plants well and watering at the base rather than overhead. Remove and dispose of infected leaves promptly. Feeding with a balanced organic fertiliser like liquid seaweed in Spring supports strong growth and flowering.
Companion Planting
Hollyhocks work well in mixed planting schemes and cottage style gardens. Their tall growth makes them ideal for the back of borders, where they provide structure and vertical interest. As companion plants, hollyhocks pair well with lavender, chives, calendula, nasturtiums, and roses, which help attract pollinators and improve overall garden biodiversity.
Edible flowers and herbs planted nearby benefit from the shade and shelter provided by hollyhocks, while the hollyhocks themselves attract bees and butterflies. Avoid planting hollyhocks too close to other plants prone to fungal diseases, as poor airflow can increase infection risks.
Growing Hollyhocks in Scotland
Choosing disease resistant varieties, providing adequate spacing and maintaining good airflow are essential best practices when growing hollyhocks in Scotland. Positioning plants in sunny, sheltered spots reduces fungal problems and helps tall stems remain upright. Regular monitoring for rust and prompt removal of affected foliage keeps plants healthy.
Harvest edible flowers in dry weather, ideally in the morning once dew has evaporated. Use fresh petals immediately or dry them gently in a shaded, well ventilated area for later use. Hollyhocks can provide beauty and edible value for many seasons.
Katrina & Clayton
Katrina & Clayton live with their family in East Ayrshire in Scotland and share their daily life in the garden on instagram @buildingfoodforest_scotland. They practice permaculture principles, reducing & repurposing waste whenever they can. Katrina shows how home educating in nature has helped Clayton thrive.
Clayton Completed The Grow and Learn Course with the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society in 2022. This year he will be completing Level 2 Nurture Course. Clayton is 16, Autistic, Non Verbal & has been Home Educated for the last 6yrs. Both Katrina and husband Peter have studied the Permaculture Design Course PDC and PDC Pro over the last 5yrs, developing their garden from grass to an ongoing food forest.
They have featured on BBC Beechgrove Gardens, Gardeners World Magazine and write for Scotland Grows Magazine. Katrina has a series of children’s story books out following the life of Clayton in the garden. Available at Amazon.
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