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Annual Biennial

Malcolmia maritima

Virginia stock

An upright annual to 40cm, with narrow, greyish-green leaves and spikes of very fragrant red, purple or white flowers from late spring to autumn

Other common names
Mediterranean stock
Synonyms
Cheiranthus maritimus

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Purple Red White Green Grey Silver
Summer Purple Red White Green Grey Silver
Autumn Purple Red White Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Brassicaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Malcolmia can be annuals or perennials, with narrow, simple or pinnately lobed leaves and short racemes of 4-petalled, purple or white flowers from spring to autumn

Name status

Correct

Plant range
W Albania to W Greece

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, with some shade from midday sun. Sow seed early to ensure good flowering

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in succession from mid-spring onwards

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Garden edging
Pruning

Cut back after flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and flea beetles

Diseases

May be susceptible to a downy mildew

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