About Hollyhocks on Queens Lane, Eynsham

Every June the ornamental hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) put on the most glorious colourful show in our village of Eynsham. They seed freely and so most of them are escapees growing wild. They never fail to thrill me as I walk through the lanes of Eynsham. Queens Lane is particularly blessed with these tall plants.

They are not a native UK species – they were brought to Europe from southwestern China many centuries ago by horticulturalists and herbalists. But the bees love them, so I’m not complaining!