Night-scented Stock

Matthiola bicornis is a humble-looking hardy annual that is an absolute essential for any UK 'moonlight garden' or evening seating area. During the day, the small, four-petalled lilac flowers appear somewhat withered and insignificant, and the plant has a straggly, grey-green appearance. However, as dusk falls, the flowers open fully and release an extraordinarily powerful and sweet fragrance that can fill the evening air for yards around. Growing to about 30-40cm, it is best sown directly into the soil in late spring, perhaps hidden behind more showy daytime plants so its scent can surprise visitors. It performs best in a sunny, well-drained position. UK gardeners often sow it in successional batches every few weeks to extend the fragrant season into late summer. It is a simple plant but offers one of the most rewarding sensory experiences in the horticultural world.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.