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Description
Matthiola Maderensis, also known as Madeiran Stock, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is endemic to Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean. This plant is a biennial or short-lived perennial that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It is characterized by its fragrant, purple or lilac-colored flowers that bloom from late spring until summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Matthiola |
| Species | Maderensis |
Appearance
Matthiola Maderensis has a rosette of dark green, lanceolate leaves that can grow up to 30cm long. The stems are erect, branching and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are usually purple or lilac, but can also be white or pink. They grow in dense spikes that can reach up to 50cm in length. The flowers have a sweet, spicy scent that intensifies at night and attracts pollinators such as moths and bees.
Care Guide
Water: This plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.Soil: Matthiola Maderensis prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure before planting.Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and blooming.Hardiness Zones: Matthiola Maderensis is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Matthiola Maderensis is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by aphids, caterpillars, and whiteflies. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. This plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and improve air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Matthiola Maderensis is native to the island of Madeira, where it grows in rocky areas, cliffs, and disturbed habitats. It prefers well-draining soils and mild temperatures. This plant is also cultivated as an ornamental in gardens and flower beds around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Matthiola Maderensis a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Matthiola Maderensis is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant.Q: What is the ideal pH range for Matthiola Maderensis?
A: Matthiola Maderensis prefers soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.Q: Does Matthiola Maderensis require full sun or partial shade?
A: Matthiola Maderensis thrives in full sun to partial shade.Q: What pests and diseases affect Matthiola Maderensis?
A: Matthiola Maderensis can be affected by aphids, caterpillars, whiteflies, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Matthiola genus include Matthiola incana (Gillyflower) and Matthiola tricuspidata (Three-toothed Stock).
References
– The Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Matthiola maderensis. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12649/Matthiola-maderensis/Details- Madeira Wildlife. (n.d.). Madeiran Stock (Matthiola maderensis). Retrieved from https://madeirawildlife.com/plants/madeiran-stock-matthiola-maderensis/
