Sea Stock
malcolmia littorea
Also known as: ["Virginia Stock","Coastal Stock"]
Overview
A coastal annual herb with fragrant, pinkish-white flowers, native to Mediterranean regions.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Malcolmia |
| Botanical Name: | Malcolmia littorea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or rockeries, prefers good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); sensitive to extreme heat or frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F/21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent blooms; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; check root health; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid contact with foliage.
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-toxicMalcolmia littorea is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMalcolmia littorea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMalcolmia littorea is not known to possess any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Malcolmia littorea suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in coastal conditions due to its salt tolerance.
Q: How often should I water Malcolmia littorea?
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 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
