This cheerful mix is great for screening an unsightly fence and providing privacy.

Alcea rosea

Type Biennial

Blooms Single flowers in shades of red, pink, white, and occasionally yellow

Light Full sun

Size 6 to 8 ft. tall, 2 ft. wide

Hardiness

Cold: USDA zones 2 to 10

Heat: AHS zones 10 to 1

Source www.swallowtailgardenseeds.com

For dramatic effect, incorporate a few nearly black, deep burgundy ‘Nigra’ into an all-white garden. The contrast of their 5- to 6-foot spikes surrounded by white is a guaranteed show-stopper!

Alcea rosea

Type Biennial

Blooms Single dark maroon, almost black, flowers

Light Full sun

Size 5 to 6 ft. tall, 2 ft. wide

Hardiness

Cold: USDA zones 2 to 10

Heat: AHS zones 10 to 1

Source www.seedsavers.org

Don’t forget to include some double hollyhocks, too. These resemble carnations!

Alcea rosea

Type Biennial

Blooms Double, fringed flowers in two shades of pink

Light Full sun

Size 3 ft. tall, 1 ft. wide

Hardiness

Cold: USDA zones 2 to 10

Heat: AHS zones 10 to 1

Source www.gardencrossings.com (plants); www.swallowtailgardenseeds.com (seeds)