About
An evergreen perennial with small, grey-green leaves forming neat, low-growing mounds. Single, scented, cream flowers are produced from late spring into summer; the flowers fade to pale pink as they age.
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 typeLoam, Chalk, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery
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
FragranceFlower
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, preferably neutral to alkaline soil but will tolerate slightly acid soil
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate 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