PerennialsSidalcea malviflora
Checkerbloom
Checkerbloom is an elegant perennial with slender flower spikes covered in soft pink, saucer-shaped blooms. The plant flowers from June to August and resembles a more delicate hollyhock. With its upright habit, it is perfect for the middle to back of a sunny border.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 60–100 cm
- Spread
- 30–50 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–8
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- pink
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, moisture-retentive soil. Checkerbloom appreciates fertile ground but tolerates leaner soils as well. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Support tall specimens with stakes in windy locations.
Pruning tips
Cut back spent flower spikes to encourage a second flush of bloom. The plant dies back to the ground in autumn — remove dead material then. Divide every three to four years to maintain vigour.
Good companions
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
PerennialsSalvia nemorosa
Woodland Sage
Woodland Sage is a compact perennial with striking purple-blue flower spikes blooming from June to August. It attracts plenty of bees and butterflies and works well in sunny borders. Cutting back spent flower stems often triggers a second flush of blooms.
PerennialsEchinacea purpurea
Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a sturdy perennial with distinctive pink-purple petals surrounding an orange-brown cone. The flowers appear from July to September and are a magnet for butterflies and bees. In autumn and winter, the seed heads attract goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.