Alcea rosea Hollyhock (Malvaceae)

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Alcea rosea
Hollyhock
(1 Page of 5)

The Alcea rosea plant species is found in The original habitat is obscure, it is probably of hybrid origin. A garden escape in Britain[17]. It is a member of the Malvaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Hollyhock. Some home gardeners know the variety as Althaea rosea.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Alcea rosea
Common Name:  Hollyhock
Family:  Malvaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  2.4   Mature Width:  0.6

Habitat:  Not known in a truly wild situation.

Medicinal Information: The flowers are demulcent, diuretic and emollient[4, 21]. They are useful in the treatment of chest complaints[4], and a decoction is used to improve blood circulation, for the treatment of constipation, dysmenorrhoea, haemorrhage etc[218]. The flowers are harvested when they are open and are dried for later use[238]. The shoots are used to ease a difficult labour[218]. The root is astringent and demulcent[240]. It is crushed and applied as a poultice to ulcers[218]. Internally, it is used in the treatment of dysentry[240]. The roots and the flowers are used in tibetan medicine, where they are said to have a sweet, acrid taste and a neutral potency[241]. They are used in the treatment of inflammations of the kidneys/womb, vaginal/seminal discharge, and the roots on their own are used to treat loss of appetite[241]. The seed is demulcent, diureti and febrifuge[240].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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