About
Dianthus pinifolius subsp. lilacinus is a subspecies of the pine-leaved pink producing the characteristic very narrow, pine-needle-like leaves and lilac-toned, fragrant flowers of the species in late spring and summer. A charming and ornamental pink for a sunny, well-drained border or rock garden.
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 typeLoam, Sand, Chalk
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Matforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
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 full sun in well-drained soil. A long-lived plant that will form a deep root system. Well suited to being grown in a stone trough or rockery
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering. No pruning required
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings of non-flowering shoots in summer or by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust, a virus and fusarium wilt