Sea Stock
matthiola sinuata
Also known as: ["Sea Stock","Mediterranean Stock"]
Overview
A hardy, fragrant flowering plant native to coastal regions of the Mediterranean, known for its long-lasting, spicy-scented blooms.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Matthiola |
| Botanical Name: | Matthiola sinuata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; occasional shaping as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest spot indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions for flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool nights for better blooms.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop fertilizing when buds form to encourage blooms; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or death in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; use a frost cloth for outdoor plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, or flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMatthiola sinuata is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMatthiola sinuata is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMatthiola sinuata, commonly known as Sea Stock, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Matthiola sinuata suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of salty air and coastal conditions.
Q: How often should Sea Stock be watered?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Sea Stock attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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