Botanical Overview of Hollyhock
Scientific Name: Alcea rosea
Common Names: Hollyhock, Common Hollyhock, Garden Hollyhock
Family: Malvaceae
Description: A tall, biennial or short-lived perennial plant with large, heart-shaped leaves and tall spikes bearing numerous colorful flowers, ranging from white to pink, red, purple, and yellow.

Properties of Hollyhock
Chemical Constituents: Mucilage, anthocyanins, flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils.
Edibility: Flowers and young leaves are edible and can be used in salads, as garnishes, or made into a soothing tea.
Distribution and Habitat of Hollyhock
Native Range: Southwestern and Central Asia.
Preferred Habitat: Grows well in full sun, in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Often found in gardens, along fences, and in meadows.
Medicinal Properties and Uses of Hollyhock
Traditional Uses: Used as a demulcent and emollient, helpful in soothing irritated tissues and treating respiratory issues.
Modern Applications: Applied in poultices for skin inflammations and wounds, and used in teas for coughs, sore throats, and digestive issues.
Magical Correspondences and Uses of Hollyhock in Magical Practice
Element: Water
Planet: Venus
Magical Properties: Fertility, abundance, protection, and dream magic.
Uses: Hollyhock is often used in spells to enhance fertility and attract abundance. It can be placed around the home for protection and to promote a peaceful atmosphere. Flowers are also used in dream pillows to encourage vivid and meaningful dreams.
Folklore, Legends, and Mythology of Hollyhock
Historical Context: Hollyhocks have been cultivated since ancient times and were a popular plant in medieval cottage gardens.
Folklore: In Victorian times, hollyhocks were believed to symbolize ambition and fecundity. It was common to plant them near the front door to bring prosperity to the household.
Mythology: Associated with the fairy realm in some traditions, hollyhocks are said to attract fairies to the garden. In ancient Chinese medicine, hollyhock seeds were used in various traditional remedies.
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