About
This evergreen perennial which forms cushions to 10cm high, of grey-green narrow leaves. In summer it has white flowers with five petals which may be smooth-edged, toothed or deeply fringed and are sweetly scented.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted, Matforming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toRomania, Balkans
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 any well-drained soil, ideally slightly alkaline, in good light
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in spring, 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