Lesser Stock
matthiola fruticulosa
Also known as: ["Lesser Stock","Low Stock"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Matthiola |
| Botanical Name: | Matthiola fruticulosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
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 afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
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 or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5).
Ensure good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds if drainage is poor.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F); thrives in mild climates; sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize lightly; stop in dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above leaf nodes, and thin crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean pruners, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim roots if pot-bound; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; improves growth and drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
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 when 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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or flower bud abortion.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf discoloration, or dieback in temperatures below 40°F.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; use frost cloth in cold snaps; ensure good drainage to prevent cold root damage.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in temperatures above 85°F.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMatthiola fruticulosa is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicMatthiola fruticulosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicMatthiola fruticulosa is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Matthiola fruticulosa toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Matthiola fruticulosa require much care?
A: It is low maintenance and relatively easy to care for.
Q: What are the common problems with Matthiola fruticulosa?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| 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
