Matthiola longipetala, known as night-scented stock or evening stock (syns Cheiranthus longipetalus, Matthiola bicornis, Matthiola longipetala subsp. bicornis, and Matthiola oxyceras), is a species of ornamental plant.
Night-scented stock is fairly disease-resistant and typically not prone to illnesses. Nevertheless, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its surroundings. Such infections are generally mild. In terms of care, the plant needs moderate maintenance. Regular pruning is required to keep a tidy appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Night-scented stock is suitable for those with outdoor spaces like a garden or patio and does not demand extensive gardening experience. It may need additional care when grown indoors.
How to keep Matthiola Longipetala.
Light
As a plant species, night-scented stock requires ample sunlight for its health and growth. Sunlight influences its life cycle, helping it through its various growth stages. Native to regions with plentiful sun, insufficient light can impede its development, while excessive light does not necessarily harm it.
Water
Night-scented stock originates from the Mediterranean, where it prefers environments with moderate humidity. This plant is drought-tolerant, needing only weekly watering to remain healthy. Typically grown outdoors, night-scented stock thrives with balanced soil moisture, which is crucial to prevent waterlogging during its active growing season.
Temperature
Night-scented stock is indigenous to temperate regions and prefers temperatures between 68 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 35 degrees Celsius). During colder periods it might need supplemental warmth to maintain healthy growth.
Fertilizer
When most of the Night-scented stock's flowers have fully opened, resume fertilizing. Around the peak flowering period, feed it once every three to four weeks, weather permitting. Then, when the plant begins to produce fewer new flowers, stop fertilizing; there's no need to feed it once it can no longer form additional blooms.
Pruning
To maintain optimal health and a pleasant fragrance in your night-scented stock, it's best to prune them from early to late spring. Focus on trimming spent flowers, leggy stems, and removing any damaged foliage. Regular pruning after flowering encourages more blooms. Be sure to use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease and ensure your night-scented stock remains robust and vibrant.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Annual, Biennial
- Genus
- Matthiola
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 2-10
- Mature Height
- 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Lavender, Pink, Purple, White
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Summer
Other names.
