About

A compact, evergreen perennial that forms a low, spreading mound of foliage. In spring and summer, white or pale pink single flowers are held above cushions of small green leaves.

About the genus

Dianthus can be annuals, evergreen perennials or subshrubs with narrow, often greyish leaves and showy flowers that are frequently fragrant

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Matforming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Rock garden, Patio and container plants
Native toTurkey to W Himalayas
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 a well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Ideal for rockeries and alpine troughs
PruningDeadhead as required
PropagationPropagate by seed or division in spring, or by taking cuttings of non-flowering shoots in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust, a virus and fusarium wilt