Overview
Dianthus Highland Hybrids is a perennial in the genus Dianthus, part of the Caryophyllaceae family. Dianthus Highland Hybrids 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 Highland Hybrids are perennial members of the Dianthus genus valued for their fragrance. They flower from May to September and perform best in full sun on well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil. The plants prefer a sheltered spot with moderate soil moisture and are classed H5 for UK hardiness.
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 Highland Hybrids are perennial hybrids within the genus Dianthus (family Caryophyllaceae), grown for their scented summer blooms. Flowering runs from May to September, providing a long season of scented flowers that suit positions where the perfume can be enjoyed. Plant them in full sun on free-draining soil that is neutral to alkaline; poor drainage is the common cause of failure. A sheltered position reduces wind damage to the flower stems and helps maintain the plant’s flowering display. Soil should be kept moderately moist rather than waterlogged — water during dry spells rather than keeping the rootzone constantly wet. H5 hardiness means these Dianthus are hardy in UK gardens and will tolerate typical winter conditions without routine winter protection. Use them at the front of mixed borders, in rock gardens where drainage is assured, or in containers on a sunny patio. Their fragranced flowers and summer-long display make them particularly effective sited beside paths or seating areas where their scent can be appreciated.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dianthus
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Dianthus Highland Hybrids size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, rock gardens, containers
- Fragrance
- fragrant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dianthus Highland Hybrids
- Cultivation
- plant in well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- deadhead regularly to promote flowering
- Propagation
- cuttings, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Dianthus Highland Hybrids?
Plant in well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Dianthus Highland Hybrids?
Dianthus Highland Hybrids prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dianthus Highland Hybrids need?
Dianthus Highland Hybrids grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Dianthus Highland Hybrids?
Deadhead regularly to promote flowering.
Is Dianthus Highland Hybrids hardy in the UK?
Dianthus Highland Hybrids has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Dianthus Highland Hybrids?
Cuttings, division.
More in the Dianthus genus
- Dianthus 'Coronation'Carnation
- Dianthus 'Mrs Sinkins'
- Dianthus 'Thomas'Carnation
- Dianthus caryophyllus 'Wesever'PBRCarnation
- Dianthus fruticosus subsp. carpathus
- Dianthus sp. (coll. Romania)
- Dianthus 'Bat's Double Red'
- Dianthus 'Brympton Red'Pink