Alcea rosea Alcea rosea Alcea rosea, the common hollyhock, is an ornamental plant in the family Malvaceae. It was imported into Europe from southwestern China during, or possibly before, the 15th century. William Turner, a herbalist of the time, gave it the name "holyoke" from which the English name derives. "Alcea rosea" is variously described as a biennial (having a two-year life cycle), as an annual, or as a short-lived perennial. It frequently self-sows, which may create a perception that the plants are perennial. The plant may flower during its first year when sown early. It will grow in a wide range
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival topiaries and a re-imagined "Cars" garden, as well as a new front entrance topiary. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival takes place each year in Epcot inside Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida near Orlando in the spring, typically from early March through late May. The 2015 Festival included the new additions of Anna and Elsa, Goofy About Spring (featuring Goofy, Chip 'n Dale and friends), and Miss Piggy topiaries, as well as the return of Spring Is in the Air!, Buzz Lightyear, Cactus Road Rally (featuring Mater and Lightning McQueen),