Matthiola longipetala subsp. bicornis - seeds

Night-scented Stock or Matthiola longipetala subsp. biscornis is an essential herbaceous annual in scented gardens. In the evening, it releases a powerful Cinnamon fragrance. 

Native to Eurasia, night-scented stock forms large, bushy, and spreading plants that reach a height of 35 cm (14in). Its small, single flowers, in shades of purple to lilac, consist of four petals and are arranged in terminal clusters that bloom continuously from June to the end of September. This makes for delightful scented evenings! Afterwards, it produces small, hairy, erect pods measuring a few tens of millimetres. The foliage is deciduous and composed of small, lanceolate, and alternate leaves. Its green-grey colour allows for stunning contrasts in flower beds with the Sugar Plum Heuchera, which has silver foliage veined with purple.

Matthiola longipetala subsp. biscornis can be planted in partial shade or full sun in rich and well-drained soil. It is well-adapted to limestone soils and can tolerate sea spray. Plant it close to entrances or high-traffic areas to fully enjoy its warm and spicy fragrance.