Dianthus 'Fragrans Plenus' (Carnations) — perennial

Overview

Dianthus 'Fragrans Plenus' is a perennial in the genus Dianthus, part of the Caryophyllaceae family. Dianthus 'Fragrans Plenus' 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 'Fragrans Plenus' is a perennial Dianthus grown for its fragrant flowers. It blooms from May to September. Plant it in full sun on well-drained neutral to alkaline soil, in a south-facing, sheltered spot with only moderate soil moisture. Classified H5, it is hardy in the UK and suits 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 'Fragrans Plenus' is a perennial in the genus Dianthus (family Caryophyllaceae) valued for its scented blooms. The fragrance is a defining feature and the flowering season runs from May to September, making it useful for adding scent through the warmer months. Give it full sun in well-drained soil that is neutral to alkaline and keep soil moisture moderate; avoid sites that remain waterlogged. A south-facing, sheltered position reduces exposure to cold winds and helps flowers open fully. The H5 rating means it is classed as hardy in the UK and will tolerate normal winter conditions without the need for routine winter protection in most areas. Plants suit the front of perennial borders, rock gardens or a container on a bright patio. In containers, use a free-draining compost and position the pot where the plant receives strong sun while remaining sheltered from prevailing winds. Because the flowers are fragrant, position groups or containers close to doors or seating areas so the scent is enjoyed at close range; a pot by a patio seat will give several weeks of scented flowers from May to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dianthus

Sunlight: full sun
Soil type: well-drained
Soil pH: neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moderate
Aspect: south-facing
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Dianthus 'Fragrans Plenus' size, habit and characteristics

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

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dianthus 'Fragrans Plenus'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; avoid waterlogging.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back after flowering.
Propagation: cuttings, division