Stock, also known as Matthiola incana, is a popular flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a compact, bushy plant that tpically grows up to 60 centimeters in height.
The leaves of the plant are narrow and lance-shaped, with a greyish-green color. The flowers are the most notable feature of the stock plant and come in white, pink, red, purple, and yellow. The blooms are small, with four petals and a distinct sweet fragrance.
Stock plants bloom in the spring and summer, but they can produce flowers all year round with proper care. This makes them a popular choice for florists who need a reliable source of blooms throughout the year. Stock plants are also popular among gardeners as they are easy to grow, requiring minimal maintenance and attention.
Stock plants prefer cool temperatures and thrive in well-drained soil. They require moderate watering, with the soil kept moist but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate light frosts, making it a popular choice for gardens in cooler climates. When growing stock plants, it is essential to provide adequate sunlight and air circulation, as these plants are susceptible to fungal diseases.
In addition, stock plants have a rich cultural history. In ancient Greek mythology, the stock plant was associated with the god of love, Eros. The flower was said to have been created when Eros shot an arrow at the ground, and the plant grew from where the arrow landed. The stock plant has also been used in weddings and other ceremonial events for centuries, symbolizing purity and fidelity.