About
Dianthus ferrugineus is a tufted dianthus producing the characteristic narrow, grey-green leaves and rusty-pink to deep-rose flowers of the genus in late spring and summer. A charming and ornamental pink for a sunny, well-drained rock garden or border.
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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Native toE Alps
ToxicityHumans/Pets: Skin allergen, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Well-suited to a rock garden or the edge of a border
PruningDeadhead as required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust, a virus and fusarium wilt