Family: Brassicaceae
Common Name: Virginia Stock

This genus of over 30 annuals and perennials is native to the Mediterranean region, extending east to Afghanistan. Only one annual species is common in cultivation. It is a popular filler plant for garden beds as it can be sown between other annuals, bulbs or shrubs. It is also a good container plant.

Species

M. maritima, Virginia stock, is native to the Mediterranean. A spreading, low-growing annual, it rarely reaches more than 20-30 cm (8-12 in) high, with small, oval, gray-green leaves and masses of small, four-petalled flowers in mauve, pink and white. Not suitable for cutting, these plants are discarded once the flowers fade. It is excellent for quick garden effect and does well in coastal gardens.

Cultivation

Grow in full sun or partial shade in a well-drained soil. Very acid soils should be dressed with lime before the seed is sown. Sow seed where it is to grow, from late spring onwards, and repeat the sowings every few weeks to ensure a succession of flowers. These stocks self-sow themselves very freely and consequently, once they are sown, they may well remain in the garden permanently. For something different, try sowing the seeds between cracks and gaps in paving, or even in a gravel path or other gravelled areas.

Climate

Zone 8, but grown as a summer annual in all climates. Not suitable for hot humid climates.