Overview
Matthiola sinuata is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Matthiola, part of the Brassicaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Matthiola sinuata grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Matthiola sinuata, commonly known as sea stock, is a bushy deciduous plant within the genus Matthiola, which includes annuals, perennials, and subshrubs with simple or lobed foliage. It produces dense clusters of fragrant flowers with four petals arranged in terminal racemes or panicles. This cultivar thrives in full sun on south- or west-facing, sheltered sites with moist but well-drained loam soil of neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suited to cottage and informal gardens, wildlife gardens, and flower borders, with interest in spring and summer. Planting is best after the last frost, with seed sown in situ in spring for successive blooms.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Matthiola
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Matthiola sinuata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Matthiola sinuata
- Propagation
- Seed sown in situ in spring, and repeated later for a succession of flowers
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Club root, Downy mildews, Root rot, Virus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Matthiola sinuata?
Matthiola sinuata prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Matthiola sinuata need?
Matthiola sinuata grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Matthiola sinuata hardy in the UK?
Matthiola sinuata has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Matthiola sinuata?
Seed sown in situ in spring, and repeated later for a succession of flowers.
More in the Matthiola genus
- Matthiola incana 'Brompton Lady'
- Matthiola incana 'Vintage Brown'
- Matthiola 'Apricot' (Excelsior Mammoth Column Series)
- Matthiola incana spring flowering mixed