Alcea Charters “Nigra”

• Plant Type: Perennial
• Common Name: Hollyhock
• Variety: Charters Nigra
• Growth Habit: Upright
• Height: Up to 2.5 meters (8 feet)
• Spread: 60-90 cm (24-36 inches)
• Foliage: Green, lobed leaves
• Flower Color: Deep burgundy or black
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer
• Hardiness: Fully Hardy
• Aspect: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil
• Uses: Back of borders, cottage gardens, cut flowers

Description:

Alcea Charters Nigra is a striking perennial hollyhock prized for its tall stature and deep burgundy to almost black flowers. The plant features upright growth, with multiple flower spikes emerging from a basal rosette of lobed green leaves. Its dark blooms contrast beautifully against the foliage, creating a dramatic focal point in the garden. Hollyhocks are beloved for their cottage garden charm and are often used to add vertical interest to borders.

Key Features:

• Deep Burgundy to Black Flowers: Alcea Charters Nigra is renowned for its stunning deep burgundy to almost black flowers. The rich, dark coloration adds a touch of drama and sophistication to the garden, making it a standout feature in any landscape.
• Upright Growth Habit: With a height of up to 2.5 meters (8 feet), Charters Nigra boasts an upright growth habit that lends itself well to the back of borders or against walls. The tall flower spikes create a vertical accent in the garden and can be easily seen from a distance.
• Cottage Garden Appeal: Hollyhocks are quintessential cottage garden plants, evoking a sense of nostalgia and charm. Alcea Charters Nigra adds a bold, dramatic element to cottage-style landscapes and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Easy to Grow: Hollyhocks are generally easy to grow and require minimal maintenance once established. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Regular watering and deadheading can help prolong the flowering period.
• Long Flowering Period: Alcea Charters Nigra blooms from late spring to early summer, providing weeks of colorful blooms in the garden. The dark flowers are also suitable for cutting, allowing you to enjoy them indoors in floral arrangements.