Description

One of the most popular hollyhocks of all time, ‘Chater’s Double’ was named after the English horticulturist, Chater of Essex, who developed this variety in 1880s. Colors include golden-yellow, rose, maroon, salmon-pink, scarlet, and white. Flowers have a long bloom period and are edible! Fairly drought tolerant but performs best with ample moisture and rich soil. Hollyhock flowers are edible, but very bland; however, the large, colorful petals are lovely garnishing salads or desserts. (The flower’s central disk, while edible, can be bitter.)

Variety Info

Family: Malvaceae
Native: Origin unknown
Hardiness: Biennial, hardy in USDA zones 2–8
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Period: Summer
Plant Dimensions: 5’–8′ tall
Variety Info: Golden-yellow, rose, maroon, salmon-pink, scarlet, and white 2″–4″ peony-shaped, double flowers.
Attributes: Drought Tolerant, Edible Flower

Sowing Info

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, or 2 months before your average first fall frost date.
When to Start Inside: 6 to 8 weeks before your average last frost date. Roots are sensitive to disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted in the ground.
Days to Emerge: 10–14 days
Seed Depth: Press into surface
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 24″–36″
Thinning: When 3″ tall, thin to 1 every 24″–36″