I wouldn't describe Hesperis matronalis as an invasive weed. It's a beautiful scented lilac flowering plant that I have managed to lose over last winter. It is a bit like Phlox.
I think an american website might call it a weed. Don't know where it comes from.
Doesn't matter at the moment whether what you have is considered a weed or a flower (a weed is really only a flower in the wrong place.) Enjoy the mystery, let nature 'do its thing' and see if you like the result. If you do, enjoy the randomness and unexpected beauty; if you don't, you know what to dig/pull out next year! Also, if you watch its full development you will be able to identify it more easily and the decision about keeping it or not will become obvious. All plants have their place in the wildlife chain and something, somewhere will appreciate it as a scource of food or shelter. Go with the flow and let it grow...
Thanks to everyone who's replied. Quick update: I'm coming to the conclusion that they're both sweet william, as they both have practically the same flower heads forming now - didn't take a photo of the root, as couldn't bring myself to pull it up, just in case it is sweet william! I generally totally suscribe to the 'go with the flow' philosophy Jacquie, but need to be reminded sometimes, so thanks for that!
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I wouldn't describe Hesperis matronalis as an invasive weed. It's a beautiful scented lilac flowering plant that I have managed to lose over last winter. It is a bit like Phlox.
I think an american website might call it a weed. Don't know where it comes from.
Good to know Sue. However, apparently hesperis matronalis has hairy stems, and seems to have slightly serrated leaves, which mine doesn't.
Doesn't matter at the moment whether what you have is considered a weed or a flower (a weed is really only a flower in the wrong place.) Enjoy the mystery, let nature 'do its thing' and see if you like the result. If you do, enjoy the randomness and unexpected beauty; if you don't, you know what to dig/pull out next year! Also, if you watch its full development you will be able to identify it more easily and the decision about keeping it or not will become obvious. All plants have their place in the wildlife chain and something, somewhere will appreciate it as a scource of food or shelter. Go with the flow and let it grow...
Thanks to everyone who's replied. Quick update: I'm coming to the conclusion that they're both sweet william, as they both have practically the same flower heads forming now - didn't take a photo of the root, as couldn't bring myself to pull it up, just in case it is sweet william! I generally totally suscribe to the 'go with the flow' philosophy Jacquie, but need to be reminded sometimes, so thanks for that!
Is the prize a week in your luxury B&B in spain?
Wish it was! A luxury B&B that is!
Just to let everyone know who might have been wondering...... they've flowered and are most definitely.....sweet william!!!
Kate cant take up the prize-so have packed my bag and am at the ready to pop over-just need the signal-what is for tea?
That's strange Geoff, Kate's already here....
Damn-you have got me again....................