Virginia stock, Alexandria stock
malcolmia maritima
Also known as: ["Virginia stock","Alexandria stock"]
Overview
A low-growing annual plant with fragrant, four-petaled flowers, typically white or pink, blooming in spring and early summer.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Malcolmia |
| Botanical Name: | Malcolmia maritima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead regularly to encourage continuous flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with well-drained soil. Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use reflective surfaces to increase light in shaded areas; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Tolerates light frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when blooms appear to encourage flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Seeds germinate readily in cool temperatures.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting more frequently.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration, but the plant is generally cold-hardy to 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold conditions to prevent root damage.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase humidity, and water deeply during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMalcolmia maritima is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicMalcolmia maritima is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicMalcolmia maritima, commonly known as Virginia stock, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is generally safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Malcolmia maritima be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Malcolmia maritima attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Malcolmia maritima suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires good drainage and full sun exposure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
