Living in a significantly historical house, a white elephant at times, I have tried to incorporate the herbs and flowers that suit its architecture as well as the lay of the land. Built during the first half of the nineteenth century it is one of two houses in this small northern Vermont hamlet this stands tall by comparison to the smaller New England capes that extend onto their respective properties by way of additions and barns. Most of the property this house sits on extends behind it providing a large and expansive area with various microclimates which I have filled with and endless variety of nostalgic charmers.

Country gardens during this period remained consistent with the prior century. The biggest change was the fluidity of the gardens, rather then the typical use of squares and rectangles. And so my gardens are waves of color, curving in and out with paths that take you right into or through them.

One of my favorite old-fashioned flowers is the Common Hollyhock, while I find anything but common. The single type is an absolute delight. The 3" wide hibiscus-like flowers open along 5-7 foot stalks. The single variety often comes in a mix of white, rose, pink and yellow. I've read that the children once made dolls with them using the flower as the skirt and the bud as the head. This is truly an enchanting flower.

The Fig Hollyhock is very similar to the common with the exception of its leaves which resemble the fig leaf, hence the name. Yellow or red tend to be the primary flower colors, although some are available in the extremely old-fashioned color "nankeen", a somewhat antique-yellow. This too is a wonderful specimen.

Hollyhocks do well in full sun, planted in rich well-draining soil. They are generally short-lived perennials living 3 years or so, but easily self-sow.

Whether or not your home has a substantial history, find a place for these captivating old-fashioned flowers. They will be a delightful addition to your garden.