Organic hollyhock 'Indian Summer'

Organic hollyhock 'Indian Summer' (Alcea rosea) from Gaia seed company, a majestic flower with romantic tones, blooming from the first year

The hollyhock 'Indian Summer' is a remarkable heirloom variety producing large single or double flowers in soft shades of pink, fuchsia, and white . Although technically biennial, it has the exceptional characteristic of flowering in its first year when sown early, allowing its spectacular presence in the garden to be enjoyed very quickly.
These upright, elegant, and robust plants can reach 1.5 to 2.4 meters (60 to 96") , creating an impressive floral display, perfect for walls, fences, high borders, and cottage gardens. Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and various other pollinators throughout the summer.

Did you know that

The hollyhock holds an important place in European folklore. In the past, it was planted near the doors of houses or barns to symbolize hospitality and indicate to travelers that they could ask for assistance. In some folk traditions, its tall flower stalks also served as a living barometer : the orientation of its leaves was observed to predict rain or wind.
Its edible petals were also used to dye fabrics pale pink or to make calming infusions renowned for soothing the throat.

Companion plants : Yarrow, bellflower, daisy, zinnia, marigold, sunflower
No known enemies : None listed, avoid waterlogged soils

Spread/Carry : Upright, majestic
Plant height : 150 to 240 cm (60–96")
Quantity per packet : 30 seeds
Certification : Eco-friendly product
Special features : Single and double flowers, blooms in the first year, edible flowers, very attractive to bees

Flower colors : Pink, fuchsia, white
Texture/structure : Large, crumpled petals, single or double
Main uses : Ornamental, bouquets, edible flowers, pollinators

Farming method

Stratify the seeds 2 weeks before sowing. Soak them for 12 hours in lukewarm water to optimize germination. Sow 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost , at a depth of 6 mm (1/4") .
Transplant into open ground after all risk of frost, handling the roots carefully, as hollyhocks do not like root disturbances.

Space the plants 45 cm (18") apart with 60 cm (24") between rows. Plant them in full sun , with moderate watering ( level 2 ).

Harvesting and preservation

The flowers can be picked for culinary decoration or for making gentle infusions.
To dry, lay the petals flat in a dark and ventilated place.

Usage ideas

• Ideal for high borders , walls, facades and cottage gardens
• Perfect for romantic flowerbeds , vertical compositions and natural settings
• Edible flowers for salads, desserts, drinks and infusions
• Excellent plant for pollinators , very popular throughout the summer
• Beautiful in rustic bouquets thanks to its long flower spikes

'Indian Summer' is a generous and luminous hollyhock, combining the elegance of old-fashioned gardens with the ease of modern cultivation. A variety that brings color, height, and poetry from the very first year.