Dianthus 'Emperor' (Carnation) — perennial

Overview

Dianthus 'Emperor' is a perennial in the genus Dianthus, part of the Caryophyllaceae family. Dianthus 'Emperor' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and containers.

About

Dianthus 'Emperor' is a perennial Dianthus with strongly scented blooms, cultivated for its fragrance. It flowers from May to September, providing a long season of scented colour. Plant it in full sun on well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil and give a south-facing, sheltered site for best results. Suitable for borders, rock gardens and containers.

About the genus

Dianthus is a genus of about 340 species of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae, native mainly to Europe and Asia, with a few species in northern and southern Africa, and one species (D. repens) in arctic North America. Common names include carnation (D.

Wikipedia contributors, "Dianthus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dianthus

In the garden

Dianthus 'Emperor' sits in the family Caryophyllaceae and is grown as a flowering perennial valued for its fragrance. Its flowering season runs from May to September, so it produces scented blooms through late spring and across the summer months. Position the plant in full sun on a well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline pH; avoid waterlogged ground. Soil moisture should be moderate rather than constantly wet. A south-facing, sheltered aspect reduces exposure to cold winds and helps flowers open fully. The plant is classed H5 (hardy), so it is suited to outdoor planting without winter protection in ordinary garden situations. Use Dianthus 'Emperor' where scent and seasonal colour matter: edged along herbaceous borders, tucked into a rock garden bed, or grown in containers on a sunny patio. Its fragrance makes it particularly effective where close-up enjoyment is intended, such as seating areas or entryways. Combine with other sun-loving, well-drained perennials to maintain an airy planting that complements the dianthus flowers from May through September.