The Essential Guide To The Stock
Botanical Name: Matthiola incana
Common Name: Stock
General Knowledge: Stock, originating from the Mediterranean region, Greece, and South Africa, is well-known for its spicy, clove-like fragrance and densely clustered blooms. Commonly used in perfumery and as a cut flower in floral arrangements, it is celebrated for its ability to add both visual appeal and a delightful scent to bouquets and garden settings. Stock holds a special place in traditional gardens and floristry due to its unique characteristics and its availability in a wide range of colours. Stock is also a member of the Brassicaceae family, which is the same family is cabbage and mustard.
Colour Range: White, cream, yellow, apricot, rose, salmon, dusty pink, crimson, lilac, purple.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Autumn, Winter, Spring
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Due to its availability in cooler seasons, Stock is perfect for adding vibrant colours and a lovely fragrance to autumn, winter, and spring events and weddings in Australia.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, Stock is commercially grown in various regions of Australia.
Imported into Australia: Generally, Stock is locally available, but it can also be imported if specific varieties are required.
Buying Tips: Look for bunches where at least two-thirds of the lower flowers are open, and the stem displays 15–20 cm of florets along the spike. A sweet, spicy fragrance indicates freshness. Avoid bunches with broken tips or signs of wilting.
Design Tips and Advice: Use Stock as both a line and focal flower in floral arrangements. Its strong stems and vibrant colours make it an excellent choice for large presentations, church and foyer arrangements. The individual florets can also be wired for use in bridal bouquets and accessories.
Flower Maturity: Choose bunches with mature flowers for immediate impact.
Expected Vase Life: 5–7 days.
Typical Stem Length: 40–90 cm
Typical Bunch Size: 5 stems per bunch
Floral Preservatives: Yes, use floral preservatives to extend vase life.
Ethylene Sensitivity: High. Protect Stock from ethylene exposure to prevent premature wilting.
Temperature Requirements: Cool storage at 2–4 °C is recommended.
Avoiding Potential Problems: Frequent recutting of stems, removal of foliage below water level, and the use of biocide and flower food will help avoid smelly water and extend vase life.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Maintain a temperature of 2–4 °C for optimal freshness.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Cut stems above the woody base, use a biocide in the water initially, then transfer to a solution with the correct dose of flower food.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Be vigilant about protecting Stock from ethylene.