Botanical Name: Mathiola incana
Family: Brassicaceae
Native: Southern Europe, Western Asia
Hardiness: Perennial or biennial in USDA zones 7–10, usually grown as an annual
Plant Dimensions: 24"–30" tall, 12" wide
Variety Information: Closely spaced, ½"–1" double flowers on tall stems in shades of pink, lavender, crimson, yellow, white, apricot, and purple
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Period: Spring and fall, during cool weather
Attributes: Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Good for Containers
When to Sow Outside: 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date for spring and fall color, or fall in USDA zone 7 and warmer for winter/spring blooms.
When to Start Inside: RECOMMENDED. 8 to 10 weeks before your average last frost date. In mild climates, sow 8 to 10 weeks before transplanting outside in fall or winter for early spring bloom. For continuous bloom, sow every 2 to 3 weeks.
Days to Emerge: 7–14 days
Seed Depth: Press into surface
Seed Spacing: A group of 4 seeds every 6"
Thinning: When 1" tall, thin to 1 every 6"
Special Instructions: For the straightest stems, stake plants, especially in windy, rainy, or part-sun areas. If fall planting in mild climates with winter precipitation, plant in raised beds or containers to ensure good drainage. For longest vase life, cut flowers when 1/3 of the flowers are open on a stem, and remove most of the foliage. Row covers at sowing or transplanting help prevent flea beetles.
Special Care: Light aids germination; do not cover seeds with soil.
