Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) “Ariella Red”

Alcea rosea

The hollyhock is biennial to perennial plant with gorgeous flowers and slightly hairy leaves. Grows well in normal garden soil in full sun to partial shade. Height up to 2m.

In folk medicine, parts of the plant have been used as a skin softener and as a laxative, and hollyhock also has an anti-inflammatory effect. The hollyhock flower tea improves digestion, protects the mucous membrane and relieves stomach and throat pain in case of inflammation.

An invigorating tea can be made from the leaves. A leaf wrap helps with boils. A steam bath is made from the flowers for the face, and a strong infusion is added to both face masks and ointments. The seeds have been used in folk medicine to treat kidney and gallstone pain.