About
Dianthus arvernensis 'Alba' is a white-flowered dianthus cultivar producing neat, compact growth with narrow, grey-green to green leaves and attractive, white flowers appearing freely from late spring to midsummer. A charming and reliable cottage-garden selection.
About the genus
Dianthus, the pinks and carnations, are annuals, evergreen perennials and subshrubs with narrow, often grey or blue-green leaves and showy, frequently fragrant flowers with fringed or toothed petals in white, pink, red or purple. Among the most beloved of all cottage-garden plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toAustralia, New Guinea
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained, neutral to acid soil in a sheltered site in full sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers at 13-16°C (55-61°F) in spring. Can also be propagated by division of rhizomes in mid-spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free