I'm still slowly working my way through the many projects that need to be done at our new to us old house. One of those is to check the fencing and fix any problems, so yesterday I wandered behind the workshop for the first time to look at the fence there (the shop is about 3 feet from the back fence on the property) and I found this lovely beast. I had no idea it was there, but I guess the neighbors have been enjoying it since there's a clear view from their house.
Google Lens and LeafSnap both say that it is a common - but quite large - Hollyhock (Alcea rosea). The Tortoise Table says it's good eating. Since I had no idea it was there and therefore haven't fertilized it or put any pesticides on it, and the back yard neighbor said he hasn't done either of those with anything in their yard either, is it safe to go ahead and let my Hermann's Tortoise have an unexpected treat? And are both the flowers and leaves good for eating, or only one or the other?
And yes, that fence definitely needs to be mended...
Google Lens and LeafSnap both say that it is a common - but quite large - Hollyhock (Alcea rosea). The Tortoise Table says it's good eating. Since I had no idea it was there and therefore haven't fertilized it or put any pesticides on it, and the back yard neighbor said he hasn't done either of those with anything in their yard either, is it safe to go ahead and let my Hermann's Tortoise have an unexpected treat? And are both the flowers and leaves good for eating, or only one or the other?
And yes, that fence definitely needs to be mended...
