Gardening tips, gardening info and heaps of ideas to help gardeners of all experience get more out of their hobby and out of their gardens.

There are more than 100 different types of Lavatera which are found in mediterranean regions. The Australian Hollyhock or Lavatera plebia is a short-lived perennial which can grow to 1-2 m. It flowers prolifically throughout spring, summer and early autumn and is very showy.
It fits well within our cottage theme in the front garden and its bushy nature can really fill a void. It can also be well fitted as a foliage plant around water features.
Easy to grow and propagate from seed and soft and hardwood cuttings.