About
This evergreen perennialwith a basal rosette of narrow, grass-like, dark green leaves to 8mm wide. In summer, tall stems to 1m high bear terminal clusters of small, magenta-pink flowers to 1.25cm in diameter.
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 hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Coastal, Cottage and informal 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 a well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or by softwood 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