Alcea 'Purple Rain'

Alcea 'Purple Rain': Royal Spire Hollyhock

Striking and statuesque, Alcea 'Purple Rain' commands attention with tall, upright spires covered in rich, dark blue-purple blooms from late spring through summer. Reaching up to 175 cm, these glowing flowers open in succession along strong vertical stems, offering long-lasting colour and structure in the back of borders or along sunny walls. Beloved by bees and butterflies, this hollyhock is not just a visual standout—it’s also a vital source of nectar through the growing season.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 175 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm (typical mature clump)
• Flower Colour: Dark blue-purple
• Flowering Period: May to August
• Foliage: Large, lobed, mid-green leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil

Uses and Benefits: Ideal for sunny borders, fence lines, or cottage-style plantings, 'Purple Rain' delivers both height and deep colour saturation during a long bloom window. It anchors planting schemes with its tall presence while providing valuable nectar to pollinators throughout the early and mid-summer months. Excellent in classic or naturalistic designs where vertical structure is desired and wildlife support is a priority.

Companion Plants: Pair Alcea 'Purple Rain' with Achillea 'Strawberry Seduction', Salvia 'Caradonna', and Panicum 'Northwind' for a pollinator-rich, sun-loving combination that balances bold flower colour with graceful movement and seasonal longevity.

Care Instructions: Grow in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly until established, then moderately thereafter. Deadhead to extend bloom and prevent unwanted self-seeding. Tall stems may benefit from staking in windy areas. Cut back in late fall or early spring. May act as a short-lived perennial or biennial; allow self-sowing to maintain a presence in the garden.

History: 'Purple Rain' is a cultivated hollyhock bred for its deep colour and reliable upright habit. A modern take on a classic form, it retains the traditional charm of Alcea while offering enhanced ornamental impact and wildlife value.

Final Thoughts: With its regal colouring and towering presence, Alcea 'Purple Rain' adds drama, height, and pollinator support to sunny gardens—a bold statement with a soft ecological touch.