Organic hollyhock 'Summer Carnival'

Organic hollyhock 'Summer Carnival' (Alcea rosea) from the seed company Gaia, a romantic giant with double, powdery and multicoloured flowers

The hollyhock 'Summer Carnival' is a spectacular heirloom variety that produces tall flower spikes reaching 1.5 to 1.8 m (5–6') , laden with double, peony-like blooms that are soft, elegant, and light like antique fabric. The ruffled petals, in shades of crimson, pink, red, yellow, and white , create a veritable carnival of color that brightens cottage gardens all summer long.
Although it is a biennial, this variety blooms in its first year , making it ideal for impatient gardeners or for creating instantly abundant flowerbeds. A winner of the prestigious All-America Selections (AAS) in 1972, it remains one of the most robust, floriferous, and versatile hollyhocks.

Did you know that

The hollyhock was once called the " rose of Saint James " because it accompanied pilgrims on the Way of St. James, readily growing near houses, shelters, and wells. In many medieval villages, it symbolized hospitality : a hollyhock growing near a door indicated that the traveler could ask for water, rest, or help.
Furthermore, its edible flowers were used in infusions to soothe throat irritations and delicately color culinary preparations. A useful, beautiful plant deeply rooted in folk heritage.

Companion plants : Yarrow, bellflower, daisy, zinnia, marigold, sunflower
Negative plants : — (no direct incompatibility, avoid excessively waterlogged soils)

Spread/Carry : Upright, majestic
Plant height : 120 to 180 cm (48–60")
Quantity per packet : 35 seeds
Certification : Environmentally friendly product
Special features : Multicolored double flowers, edible, blooms in the first year, attracts pollinators

Flower colors : Cream, crimson, pink, red, yellow, white
Texture/structure : Double petals, crumpled, peony effect
Main uses : Ornamental, edible flowers, drying, cottage gardens

Farming method

Stratify the seeds for 2 weeks in the refrigerator and soak them for 12 hours in lukewarm water to promote 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 with great care: the hollyhock does not appreciate abrupt transplanting.

Space the plants 45 cm (18") apart with 60 cm (24") between rows. Provide full sun , moderate watering ( level 2 ), and well-drained soil.

Harvesting and preservation

The flowers can be harvested fresh for cooking or dried for infusions or decorative uses. It is best to pick them in the morning.
For drying, lay the flowers flat in a dark and ventilated place.

Usage ideas

• Magnificent in high borders and cottage gardens
• Perfect for romantic flowerbeds , with light perennials
• Edible flowers for salads, cakes, and floral drinks
• Superb dried heads for botanical art and vintage bouquets
• Ideal for attracting bees, bumblebees and butterflies

The hollyhock 'Summer Carnival' is a true living painting: spectacular, floriferous, delicate, and deeply heritage-rich. A variety that transforms any garden into a poetic scene from its very first year.