Double Hollyhock - Alcea rosea 'Double' - Butterfly Host Plant
Hollyhock
Alcea rosea
Also Known As: Althaea rosea
Zones: 3-8
Plant Type: Biennial/Perennial
Height: 5-7 ft.
Plant Spacing: 18-24 in.
Light Requirements: Full sun
Water Requirements: Medium
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil, requires regular watering
Host Plant For: Painted Lady and Tropical Checkered-Skipper Butterfly
Starter Plants are not large enough to feed larvae.
One 4" potted plant will feed 2-3 larvae.
Hollyhock is a cultivated plant originally from Asia. Quickly spreading by self-seeding, it has become naturalized in most of the United States and Eastern Canada. Many colors are available, including yellow, red, pink, purple or white. The long flower stalks often require staking to stay upright. Painted Lady and Tropical Checkered-Skipper butterflies will lay light green eggs on leaves, and if you look carefully you can often find black or green larvae on leaves. Add Hollyhock to your garden to attract butterflies and enjoy the bright blooms this year!
Butterflies that use Hollyhock as a larval host plant: