PLANT PROFILE:
Zone: 3-10
Height: 180 - 240cm (6 - 8 ft)
Spread: 45 - 90cm (1.5 - 3 ft)
Foliage:  As a biennial, Alcea will form a basal rosette the first season, flower spike the second year, and sometimes endures a third year; foliage is medium green in colour and coarse textured
Flower:  Large, single, black-maroon flowers open sequentially up the stalk from summer through fall
Soil:  Average, moist, with good drainage; can tolerate some drought
Garden site:  Rich dark bloom colour contrasts wonderfully and complements brighter colours in the garden; the tall, vertical shape works well in the back or mid-range of beds