About
Dianthus caryophyllus, the border carnation, is a clove-scented, evergreen perennial developing a woody base with age, producing single, variable, richly fragrant flowers in shades of pink and purple on erect stems above glaucous foliage. The ancestor of many old and modern carnations, it is the original cottage carnation.
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.
Plant details
Suggested usesRock gardens, borders, wildflower meadows
Care notes
CultivationWell-drained, often alkaline soil in full sun
PruningDeadhead or shear after flowering
PropagationSeed, division, or cuttings depending on species
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceRust occasionally