FREE: Vikki'sGarden◠◡✿BLACK KNIGHT HOLLYHOCKS ~ Sacred, Edible Flower ~Gothic ~ Aleca Rosa Nigra 15 Seeds

The listing, Vikki'sGarden◠◡✿BLACK KNIGHT HOLLYHOCKS ~ Sacred, Edible Flower ~Gothic ~ Aleca Rosa Nigra 15 Seeds has ended.

"Of a dark red like black blood..."

Said John Parkinson in his 1629, graphic description of the fascinating and rare Aleca Rosa Nigra.

Though most folks associate the Hollyhock with Victorian Cottage Gardens, this exotic bloom has a fascinating history dating as far back as 50,000 years to a Neanderthal burial site. Thus, we know it was extremely important and sacred at a very early time for humanity. Also of interest to the theme of this flower being "sacred" is the company it kept, including; The Knight's Crusaders, who believed the flower had healing qualities and named it 'Holly'hock for the 'Holy' Land. Yet this sacred bloom also found a happy home among Japanese Shogun's and Tutor Royalty! In fact, the use of this flower in non-traditional 'Cottage Gardens' may have been the first time Hollyhocks were ever used by non-priest or grown outside sanctioned royal gardens!

Flowers, seeds, roots and leaves of Hollyhock are all edible! The blooms have been used as culinary decoration for centuries. To make a sweet delight, simply dip a flower in egg white and then roll in sugar. In the South, the candy bell delights are turned upside down and used as Southern Belle dresses adoring cakes and pastry's. The leaves can be used in the same manner you would use spinach leaves, raw, cooked or baked. The seeds can be eaten raw or added to salads. And the roots were used for medicinal cures.

Direct sow Hollyhocks where you want them for a early Spring showing!
Zones:6-9
Height: 6-8'
Full sun-part shade. Moist well draining soil.
Seeds packaged in breathable glassine bag with color photo and germination instructions.

Photo © 2015