Dianthus 'Enid Anderson' (Carnation) — perennial

Overview

Dianthus 'Enid Anderson' is a perennial in the genus Dianthus, part of the Caryophyllaceae family. Dianthus 'Enid Anderson' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral to alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include rock gardens, borders and edging.

About

Dianthus 'Enid Anderson' is a perennial Dianthus cultivar notable for its fragrant flowers. It blooms from May to September. Plant in full sun on well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in a south-facing, sheltered position with moderate soil moisture. It is fully hardy (H7) and suits rock gardens, borders and edging.

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 'Enid Anderson' sits in the Caryophyllaceae family and is part of a genus that has most of its wild species originating in Europe and Asia. As a perennial, it produces a long flowering season from May to September and carries the spicy fragrance associated with many perennial pinks. Select a sunny, south-facing site that stays sheltered from strong winds; a protected aspect helps the flower stems remain upright and the scent travel to seating areas or nearby paths. Use a free-draining soil that is neutral to alkaline and avoid waterlogged patches—moderate soil moisture is sufficient rather than persistent wetness. The plant carries an H7 rating, which in plain terms means it is fully hardy in UK gardens. Dianthus 'Enid Anderson' is well suited to rock gardens, the front of borders and as edging where its bloom length and fragrance can be appreciated close to eye level. Positioning the plant where you pass by will make the most of the scent during the May–September flowering period, and its preference for shelter means it responds best when not exposed to full-force coastal or upland winds.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dianthus

Sunlight: full sun
Soil type: well-drained
Soil pH: neutral to alkaline
Soil moisture: moderate
Aspect: south-facing
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Dianthus 'Enid Anderson' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: rock gardens, borders, edging
Fragrance: fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dianthus 'Enid Anderson'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; avoid waterlogging; deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooming.
Pruning: Trim back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Propagation: cuttings, division