Stock – care tips & profile
The levkoje is a popular traditional cottage garden plant and transforms balconies and patios into a sea of fragrant flowers. Botanically, the summer-flowering plant is called Matthiola incana and belongs to the cruciferous family (Brassicaceae). The genus name Matthiola goes back to the Italian doctor and botanist Pietro Andrea Mattioli (1501 to 1577). The garden levcoia originates from south-west Europe, Turkey, North Africa and the Canary Islands. Around 60 species are known. Even in ancient times, levkoyas were popular in gardens, particularly because of their fragrance. From the 18th century onwards, they became "in" in all social classes - whether in a lady's bouquet at a debutante ball or in a gentleman's buttonhole and on window sills in workers' flats.
Profile of the levkoye - What do levkoyes look like?
Levkoyas are a popular summer flower and a typical country flower, similar to snapdragons, peonies and daisies. In the past, no rural garden was complete without levkoyas, especially as their fragrance is a special feature. They are easy to grow and care for in the garden, their colour spectrum ranges from white, pink and blue to dark pink and light yellow, and they can be used in a variety of ways in bouquets and floristry.
Growth
The summer-flowering plant needs plenty of water during its growth phase and waterlogging should be avoided. Levkoje is sensitive to salt, so liquid fertiliser should only be used very sparingly. High-growing varieties should be given a plant support to prevent them from bending over. Withered flowers should be removed to prolong the flowering period.
Height of growth
As semi-shrubs, levkoyas grow between 25 and 80 cm high, depending on the variety, and develop a lush taproot. From this grows an upright main shoot that branches out at the sides. Today, the levkoye is usually grown as an annual.
Flower colour
Levkoye flowers in white, light yellow, red, pink, purple and lilac, offering a wide range of colours.
Flowering time
The flowering period lasts from June to September. In the greenhouse from March to June.
Flower shape
The flowers of the levkoye sit on a spike-like to racemose inflorescence. Levkoye flowers open on long panicles, either double or single, from bottom to top. What makes the flowers so special is their fragrance, which is reminiscent of nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and clove. Levkojen form pods about 1cm long with spherical seeds.
Leaf shape
Levkoyas have elongated leaves. The grey-white pubescence on the leaves is striking. The leaves are simple, alternate, whole-margined and lanceolate.
Light
Levkoyas are light germinators. In this respect, they are simply sown evenly on the growing medium, lightly pressed down but not covered. Even when planted out, they love bright locations, but a full sun position in the bed should be avoided.
Soil type
Levkoja seeds require a humus-rich, light and well-drained substrate to germinate. In the garden, they prefer a well-drained location with good moisture penetration but without waterlogging.
Use
Levkoje is suitable for fragrant borders and flower beds. Low varieties are recommended for containers and tubs. The plants can also be cultivated as cut flowers for summer and scented bouquets. Levkoje is a popular cut flower as it also has a fragrance and a certain floral charm. It also has a very natural look and therefore belongs in the group of cottage garden plants. Levkoye is also popular as cut flowers in colourful bouquets for the vase.