Pronunciation: [hˈɒlɪhˌɒks] (IPA) 
The word "hollyhocks" is spelled with double L's, as the first L is pronounced as a voiced alveolar lateral approximant /l/ and the second L is pronounced as a consonant cluster of /l/ followed by /ks/. The sound /h/ represents an unvoiced glottal fricative and the vowel sound /ɒ/ is pronounced as an open back rounded vowel. Thus, the IPA phonetic transcription for "hollyhocks" is /ˈhɒlihɒks/.
Hollyhocks are flowering plants that belong to the Alcea genus within the Malvaceae family. These herbaceous perennials are native to the regions of Europe and Asia, and they are popularly cultivated for their attractive flowers and tall, erect stems.
The term "hollyhocks" typically refers to the species Alcea rosea, which is the most well-known and widely cultivated variety. Hollyhocks can also denote other species within the Alcea genus, which display similar characteristics.
The plants are characterized by their tall, sturdy stems that can grow up to 9 feet in height, making them an eye-catching addition to gardens and landscapes. Hollyhocks are recognized for their distinct, large, and showy flowers, which range in color from pink, red, purple, yellow, and white. These blooms have a bell or cup-shaped structure with five petals, giving them a distinctive appearance. Hollyhocks are also recognized for their long blooming period, which generally stretches from early summer to early fall.
Hollyhocks are typically grown from seeds, and they thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight. They are considered hardy perennials in temperate regions, although they can also be cultivated as biennials or short-lived perennials in colder climates. Hollyhocks are commonly utilized in cottage gardens, border plantings, and as background screens due to their height and impressive visual impact.
The word hollyhocks derived from Middle English holihocke which was a combination of two elements.
The first part, holly, originated from the Old English word holegn meaning holly plant. This was subsequently transformed into holly in Middle English.
The second part, hock, was derived from the Old English word hoc which referred to the mallow plant. Hoc was also used to describe the flowerhead or spike of the mallow plant.
When combined, hollyhocke came to signify the mallow-like flowers or mallow with holly-like leaves. Over time, the term underwent modifications, eventually becoming hollyhocks.
