Contents
Description
Matthiola Incana, also known as Gillyflower, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. It is native to Southern Europe but can now be found in various parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and Asia. The plant is known for its sweet scent and is often used in perfumes and aromatherapy products.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Matthiola |
Appearance
Matthiola Incana can grow up to 60 cm in height and has a bushy, clumping habit. It has lance-shaped leaves that are a bluish-green color and can grow up to 8 cm long. The flowers are four-petaled and can vary in color from white, pink, purple, and red. The flowers are highly fragrant and bloom in the spring and summer months. The plant prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frost.
Care Guide
Matthiola Incana is a relatively easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly but not excessively. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers sandy, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: Matthiola Incana prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in zones 6 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Matthiola Incana is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide. It can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and thrips, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Matthiola Incana is native to Southern Europe and can be found in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frost. The plant is now grown in various parts of the world and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Matthiola Incana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Make sure to use well-draining soil and water regularly.
Q: How long do Matthiola Incana flowers last?
A: The flowers can last up to two weeks, depending on the weather conditions.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Matthiola Incana plant?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Matthiola Incana be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the summer months.
Related Plants
- Matthiola Bicornis
- Matthiola Fruticulosa
- Matthiola Longipetala
- Matthiola Odoratissima
References
- “Matthiola incana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 19, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b723.
- “Matthiola incana (L.) W.T.Aiton.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed July 19, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:286734-1.
- “Matthiola incana – Gillyflower.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed July 19, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP057.
