56 Species of Genus Matthiola

Matthiola: A Fragrant Journey

My name is Ferb Vu, and I’ve always been drawn to the subtle beauty and captivating fragrance of Matthiola. These flowering plants, belonging to the Brassicaceae family, have a charm that’s hard to resist. Native to Eurasia and southern Africa, the genus boasts around 50 species, each with its unique characteristics. Let me take you on a fragrant journey through the world of Matthiola.

Diverse Species and Common Names

Matthiola is a diverse genus, encompassing annuals, biennials, and perennials. They’re known by various common names, including “stock” and “gillyflower”:

1. Matthiola incana: Often referred to as “common stock” or “ten-week stock,” this species is popular for its vibrant flower colors and strong fragrance. It’s widely cultivated for ornamental purposes.
2. Matthiola longipetala: Known as “evening stock” or “night-scented stock,” this species is admired for its intensely fragrant flowers that bloom in the evening.
3. Matthiola sinuata: This species, known as “sea stock,” thrives in coastal areas and exhibits a wild, untamed beauty.
4. Matthiola bicornis: Similar to M. longipetala, this species releases its sweet fragrance at night.
5. Matthiola afghanica Rech.f. & Köie
6. Matthiola anchoniifolia Hub.-Mor.
7. Matthiola arabica Boiss.
8. Matthiola aspera Boiss.
9. Matthiola boissieri Grossh.
10. Matthiola bolleana Webb ex Christ
11. Matthiola bucharica Czerniak.
12. Matthiola caspica (N.Busch) Grossh.
13. Matthiola chenopodiifolia Fisch. & C.A.Mey.
14. Matthiola chorassanica Bunge ex Boiss.
15. Matthiola codringtonii Rech.f.
16. Matthiola crassifolia Boiss. & Gaill.
17. Matthiola czerniakowskae Botsch. & Vved.
18. Matthiola daghestanica (Conti) N.Busch
19. Matthiola damascena Boiss.
20. Matthiola dumulosa Boiss. & Buhse
21. Matthiola erlangeriana Engl.
22. Matthiola farinosa Bunge ex Boiss.
23. Matthiola flavida Boiss.
24. Matthiola fragrans (Fisch.) Bunge
25. Matthiola fruticulosa (L.) Maire
26. Matthiola ghorana Rech.f.
27. Matthiola glutinosa Jafri
28. Matthiola graminea Rech.f.
29. Matthiola integrifolia Kom.
30. Matthiola kralikii Pomel
31. Matthiola lunata DC.
32. Matthiola macranica Rech.f.
33. Matthiola maderensis Lowe
34. Matthiola maroccana Coss.
35. Matthiola montana Boiss.
36. Matthiola obovata Bunge
37. Matthiola odoratissima (M.Bieb.) W.T.Aiton
38. Matthiola parviflora (Schousb.) W.T.Aiton
39. Matthiola perennis Conti
40. Matthiola perpusilla Rech.f.
41. Matthiola puntensis Hedge & A.G.Mill.
42. Matthiola revoluta Bunge ex Boiss.
43. Matthiola robusta Bunge
44. Matthiola scapifera Humbert
45. Matthiola shehbazii Ranjbar & Karami
46. Matthiola shiraziana Zeraatkar, Khosravi, F.Ghahrem., Al-Shehbaz & Assadi
47. Matthiola spathulata Conti
48. Matthiola stoddartii Bunge
49. Matthiola superba Conti
50. Matthiola tatarica (Pall.) DC.
51. Matthiola taurica (Conti) Grossh.
52. Matthiola tianschanica Sarkisova
53. Matthiola tomentosa Bél.
54. Matthiola torulosa (Thunb.) DC.
55. Matthiola tricuspidata (L.) W.T.Aiton
56. Matthiola trojana Dirmenci, Satıl & Tümen

Cultivating Matthiola

Many Matthiola species are relatively easy to cultivate, making them a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements. They prefer well-drained soil and sunny locations. While some species are more tolerant of drought conditions, regular watering is generally recommended, especially during dry spells. Deadheading faded blooms can encourage prolonged flowering.

The Allure of Fragrance

One of the most captivating aspects of Matthiola is the intoxicating fragrance of its flowers. The scent is often described as spicy, sweet, and clove-like. This alluring fragrance is particularly pronounced in the evenings and at night, especially in species like Matthiola longipetala and Matthiola bicornis. This characteristic makes them a popular choice for moon gardens, where their fragrance can be enjoyed after sunset.

Matthiola in History and Culture

Matthiola has a rich history, with evidence suggesting its cultivation dating back to ancient Greece. The genus is named after Pietro Andrea Mattioli, an Italian naturalist and physician from the 16th century. Throughout history, Matthiola has been associated with various symbolic meanings, including beauty, longevity, and a happy life.

Personal Reflections

I find myself drawn to the unassuming beauty and powerful fragrance of Matthiola. There’s something magical about the way their scent fills the air, especially during the quiet hours of the evening. Whether gracing a garden border or adding a touch of elegance to a vase, Matthiola has a unique ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and joy. I believe that the enduring appeal of Matthiola lies in its ability to connect us with nature’s simple pleasures.