What is Matthiola?

Matthiola is a genus of plants that is part of the Brassicaceae family. It was named after the Italian botany Pierandre Mattioli. The genus contains about 50 kinds of annual and permanent herbs that come from East and North Africa, Europe and Asia. Most species have tightly grouped flowers that grow on the spikes. They are used as cut flowers for mixed floral arrangements and as flowering shrubs for flower beds or boundaries. Commonly grown varieties include Matthiola Incana , which contains pink-violet flowers, and Matthiola Longipetala , which contains light purple for white flowers. Other varieties in this family produce red, yellow, cream and peach colors. Usually, the clay or sandy soil that is Slightly Alkallin will provide the best support for the growing Matthiola plant. It should also be well drained. This genus of plants favors full sunlight, but can benefit in a partial shade. In the gardens the plants are grouped with other floweringplants. As a cut flower, this family will remain live for 5-7 days.

In general, a large amount of work is required to maintain flowering plants. Calcked floral spikes are removed to the nearest rip of the flowering side. In autumn it is recommended to prune all growth to the ground level. In order to prevent mold growth, regular pick -up of the plant residues, which were stored on the ground, including leaves and twigs.

Common fungal infection that affects Matthiola Incana is Downy Milros. It causes a white purple color form on the leaves of the plants. Below them, the leaves are damaged and yellow. The disease can be prevented by using fungicide and using the drip irrigation instead of the upper irrigation.

This genus is also influenced by damage to insects, especially aphids. They attack the leaves of the plant and cause them to distort and tap.Insects also leave sticky residues on the plant that acts as an incubation medium for certain fungal spores. The most worrying is the mold that can blackmail the leaves and stems of the plant. Insecticidal soap is commonly used to eliminate aphids.