Hollyhocks are biennial or short-lived perennials. In the first year they put on root and foliage growth and in the second they flower, set seed and then die.
A few hollyhocks are annuals that will bloom in their first year when planted early enough. One example is the 'Queeny Purple' hollyhock (Alcea rosea 'Queeny Purple, zones 2-10)', which All-American Selections reports will produce plenty of flowers in its first year if sown in February or March.
Hollyhocks come in a wide variety of colors: blue, pink, purple, red, white, yellow and even black. The tall spikes are covered with blooms from top to bottom. Hollyhock leaves are large, coarse and palmate in shape.. . . . .364011235868!]
