Winter Flower Feature: Stock

Stock Flower (Matthiola incana)

As the chill of winter sets in, our floral focus shifts to a wonderfully fragrant bloom known for its lush clusters of flowers and spicy clove-like scent. Available in a variety of colours including white, pink, purple, lilac and red, stock flowers are a versatile and captivating choice for the colder months. Read on to discover the history of our winter feature flower, how to care for stock, and how to style them at home.

History of Stock

Stock, also known as Matthiola incana, has a long history of cultivation. The heady-scented bloom belongs to the mustard family which also includes kale, turnips, cabbage, broccoli, and brussel sprouts. Stock flowers are edible, with the pods having a pleasant radish-like taste and the blossoms having a floral flavour.

Native to the Southwestern Greece and the Mediterranean region, these flowers were cherished by the ancient Greeks and Romans for their beauty and fragrance. Over time, they spread throughout Europe and during the Middle Ages, landlords would accept stock flowers as currency for land purchases or rent.

The bloom was named after the 16^th century Italian doctor and botanist Pietro Andrea Mattioli who was known for his prolific work identifying plants. He believed stock had medicinal values that promoted love and lust due to their strong scent.

Stock was also used to treat ailments like venomous bites and aid in digestion in the Victorian era when they became a staple in English gardens. Victorians would gift the flower, signifying their sincere and profound affection for the recipient promising contentment and joy throughout life.

How to Care for Stock

When selecting stock flowers, look for stems with multiple blooms that are just starting to open ensuring you get longevity from your flowers. Trim about 2cm off the ends of the stems at an angle before placing them in a clean vase of cool water. Keep your stock away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts to prolong their lifespan. Stock tends to quickly turn vase water murky so be sure to change the water and clean the vase at least every two days.

How to Style Stock

Stock flowers’ tall, elegant stems and dense flower clusters make them perfect for creating a variety of stunning winter arrangements. At home in English-style posies, stock looks gorgeous paired with roses, sweet pea, and delicate foliages. Alternatively, choose a few bunches of stock in your favourite colourway and style en masse in a vase to bring an injection of spicy floral fragrance into your home.

Celebrate the beauty of the season by incorporating versatile stock flowers into your winter floral décor, bringing an air of elegance and a touch of fragrance to your space. Visit our stores: South Yarra, Armadale & Brighton Stores.

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Same-Day Flowers by Victoria Whitelaw Melbourne Florist