Contents
Description
Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is commonly known as Night-scented Stock due to its strong, sweet fragrance that is most potent after sunset. This plant is native to the Mediterranean and can grow up to 60 cm tall. It is an annual plant that blooms from June to September and is often used in gardens for its beautiful, fragrant flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Matthiola |
Appearance
Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color. Its flowers are small and fragrant, with four petals that are arranged in a cross shape. The petals vary in color from white to pink, lilac, and purple. The plant can grow up to 60 cm tall, and its stem is covered with tiny hairs.
Care Guide
Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your Night-scented Stock healthy and blooming:
Water: Water your plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent disease.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Night-scented Stock prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, but it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom properly.
Hardiness Zones: Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Night-scented Stock is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common garden problems. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant’s leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow.
Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat holes in the plant’s leaves and flowers, causing damage to the plant.
Fungal Diseases: Night-scented Stock can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases can cause the plant’s leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
Habitat
Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala is native to the Mediterranean region and grows in rocky, sandy areas. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. This plant is often cultivated in gardens and is popular for its sweet fragrance and beautiful flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Night-scented Stock indoors?
A: While Night-scented Stock can be grown indoors, it is best suited for outdoor gardens where it can receive direct sunlight and good air circulation.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Night-scented Stock?
A: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Q: Can I grow Night-scented Stock from seeds?
A: Yes, Night-scented Stock can be grown from seeds. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil in the spring and water regularly until the plant is established.
Q: How tall does Night-scented Stock grow?
A: Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala can grow up to 60 cm tall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala:
- Matthiola Incana
- Matthiola Bicornis
- Matthiola Odoratissima
- Matthiola Perennis
References
- “Matthiola Longipetala.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283907.
- “Matthiola Longipetala Subsp. Longipetala.” Royal Horticultural Society. www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11463/i-matthiola-longipetala-i-subsp-i-longipetala-i/details.
- “Night-scented Stock.” Gardening Know How. www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/night-scented-stock/night-scented-stock-care.htm.
