Alcea rosea 'Chater's Double Red' - 2026

Alcea rosea 'Chater's Double Red' is a stunning hollyhock variety renowned for its tall, upright stems topped with large, fully double, crimson-red flowers that create a dramatic and elegant display in summer gardens. Blooming from mid-summer to early autumn, its vibrant flowers can reach up to 10 cm across and provide a striking vertical accent, making it ideal for borders, cottage gardens, or along walls and fences. This variety is particularly valued for its long-lasting blooms and the abundance of flowers it produces, adding both colour and structure to mixed plantings. Hollyhocks are excellent for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. They are easy to grow from seed or young plants and can self-seed to provide continual displays in suitable conditions.

Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, Alcea rosea 'Chater's Double Red' benefits from staking in windy sites to support its tall stems. Deadheading spent flowers can prolong the flowering period, and occasional feeding encourages robust growth and vibrant blooms. While generally hardy and low-maintenance, watch for rust disease, which can be managed by good air circulation and removing affected leaves. Its combination of height, rich colour, and pollinator-friendly blooms makes this cultivar a classic, eye-catching addition to any garden.