Matthiola sp
Common: Stock
Family: Brassicaceae
Sunset Zone: All Zones
Light: Full sun, can take light shade
Soil: Needs light, fertile soil
Water: Good drainage
Long been a favorite of western gardeners. Valued for fragrance, cut flowers, garden decoration. Many strains available.
Column stock and double Giant Flowering are unbranched, 2-3 ft. tall, and can be planted in rows.
Imperial Strain is branched, 2 to 2-1/2 ft. tall.
All species have long, narrow gray-green leaves and luxiriant flowers in erect clusters. Leaves oblong to 4 inches long. Flowers single or double, 1 in. wide, in spikes. Colors include white, pink, red, purple, lavendar, cream. Spicy-sweet fragrance.
Plants take moderate frost but will not set flower buds if nights are too chilly; late planting means late flowers. Where rainfall is heavy, plant in raised beds to ensure good drainage, prevent root rot.