Stock
matthiola incana
Also known as: ["Ten-week Stock","Gillyflower"]
Overview
A fragrant flowering plant known for its clusters of small, often double flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, or yellow.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Matthiola |
| Botanical Name: | Matthiola incana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- 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: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile garden loam
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate (50–70°F/10–21°C); prefers cooler nights for blooming.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain good air circulation; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; sow seeds in late winter or early spring.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, deadhead spent blooms, trim leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too big.
Method
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; gently tease out crowded roots.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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; 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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or bud abortion in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in frost.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a layer of mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Stunted growth, wilting, or flower drop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMatthiola incana is not toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a risk to feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMatthiola incana is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMatthiola incana, commonly known as hoary 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: How often should I water Matthiola incana?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on weather conditions.
Q: Does Matthiola incana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: Can Matthiola incana be grown indoors?
A: While possible, it thrives best outdoors where it can receive ample sunlight and airflow.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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