STOCKS

The botanical name is Matthiola incana, named after Dr Matthiole (1527-1576), a personal physician to Emperor Maxmillian of Austria, who wrote several medical and botanical books. Its other common name is gillyflower. It originates from the Mediterranean and Canary Islands, and it's peak flowering season is from March-August.

It has a tall, strong stem with a cluster of sweet-scented, double flowers forming a spike, and comes in a variety of colours. White is the most popular colour, but it is also available in pink, red, yellow, lilac and purple.

A favourite since Elizabethan times, its versatility in breeding has led to new longer lasting cultivars. One well-known group is the Brompton Stock, bred in Brompton Park, London, where the South Kensington museums now stand.

To prolong its vase life of 8-12 days, make sure all the foliage is removed below the water level and that the water is changed regularly to prevent slime forming. Re-cut the stems each time and also add flower food.

Stock means lasting beauty, bonds of affection and promptness.

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