Dame’s rocket, dame’s-violet, damask-violet, dames-wort, dame’s gilliflower, night-scented gilliflower
Hesperis matronalis can grow up to one meter tall and bloom from April to July (depending on the region). This biennial or perennial plant is native to Southern Europe and was introduced to other regions as an ornamental plant, where it has naturalized.
I discovered the specimens shown here in a park. When growing wild, Hesperis matronalis can be found near gardens, along bushes, in meadows, and on embankments. It tolerates sunny to partially shaded locations and requires consistently moist, nutrient-rich soil.
The flowers supposedly have an intense fragrance, especially in the evening hours. However, they are also visited by insects during the day.
Characteristics & Description
Height, habit: Biennial or perennial herbaceous plant, 40 to 100 centimeters
Poisonous: No
Origin: Europe, Western Asia, and as a neophyte also in North America (map)
USDA zone: 4 (-18.4 °F/-28 °C)
Botany
Family: Brassicaceae / cabbage
Name: Hesperis matronalis
Categories: Blue & Purple Flowers | Garden plants | Wildflowers |
