Water
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during flowering. Water deeply at the base, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in cooler weather.
Also known as Brompton Stock · Common Stock · Gilliflower
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Matthiola incana, or Hoary Stock, is a fragrant, cool-season annual. It features dense spikes of colorful flowers in white, pink, red, and purple, adding scent and beauty
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade for best flowering.
80% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, avoiding waterlogging.
60% intensity
Well-drained, fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline
50% intensity
Prefers cool temperatures, 15-20°C.
60% intensity
Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Regular feeding during active growth and bloom.
70% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains glucosinolates, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets and humans if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during flowering. Water deeply at the base, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in cooler weather.
Regular deadheading is crucial for Matthiola incana to encourage continuous flowering and prevent premature seed set, which can shorten its lifespan. Snip off spent flower stalks at the base.
For bushier plants and more prolific blooms, pinch back young seedlings when they are about 6 inches tall, promoting lateral branching and a fuller display.
Matthiola incana is primarily propagated from seed. Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost, or directly outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
Seeds require darkness for optimal germination, so cover them lightly with soil.
While less common, cuttings can be taken from specific cultivars to maintain desired traits, though seed propagation is generally more reliable.
As an annual, Matthiola incana is not typically repotted multiple times.
If started indoors, transplant seedlings carefully to their final outdoor location or larger containers once they have developed a few true leaves and all risk of frost has passed. Handle roots gently to minimize shock.
Ensure the new pot or garden bed offers ample space for growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Hoary Stock (Matthiola incana)
Where Hoary Stock (Matthiola incana) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Matthiola |
| Species | Matthiola incana |
Similar in genus Matthiola
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
