Night-scented stock (Matthiola longipetala)
Care, watering, light and tips for Night-scented stock on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Brassicaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Night-scented stock
Matthiola longipetala, commonly known as 'Night-scented Stock', is an annual plant from the Brassicaceae family, renowned for its four-petaled flowers that release an intense, sweet fragrance at dusk. Its flower spikes, often in pale lavender or white tones, are unassuming during the day but open as evening falls, perfuming the garden. It is ideal for pots near windows, path edges, or any area where its nocturnal scent can be enjoyed.
Native range
Mediterranean region and Middle East
Care tips
It prefers full sun or light partial shade and well-drained, fertile, slightly alkaline soil. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. A common mistake is planting it in heavy or poorly draining soils, which can lead to root rot. To prolong flowering, it is recommended to remove spent blooms.
How to save a dying Night-scented stock
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft stems, lack of blooms or drooping flowers.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If waterlogged, remove from pot and let roots dry. If very dry, water lightly.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its biggest foe, quickly rotting roots. Also, lack of light or extreme heat.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. If roots aren't completely rotted, there's hope. Prune damaged parts and optimize watering and light.