Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’

The flowers of this hollyhock are so dark that only when you look at the flower petals backed by sunlight can you see that they are darkest red, otherwise they look jet black. Hollyhocks are a classic cottage garden plant great for the back of the border. They should be grown in full sun with average to fertile soil and good air circulation to help minimize the possibility of rust that can affect the leaves. Plant something full and bushy in front and no one will notice if you do get a little rust! Photo courtesy of Walters Gardens.