Classic cottage garden perennials, the Dianthus family includes both newly developed hybrids and old-fashioned favorites. Very closely related to carnations but Dianthus are hardy and have much smaller blooms. Flowers are fragrant and come in a range of colors that include reds, white, purple and bicolors. Foliage is dense and mat-like and in most areas evergreen.  Just a few plants will quickly spread into a carpet of beautiful plants. Dianthus blooms on and off through out the growing season while some of the newer hybrids will bloom heavily from spring through fall.  Plant height is dependant upon the variety and can be as low as 3 inches to as tall as 24 inches. Dianthus will flower more profusely when planted in full sun but will grow in dappled shade. Soil should be amended heavily with organic matter and be well drained. Dianthus likes a neutral soil, so lime may be needed if you have acidic soil. (learn about soil testing) The plants will tolerate hot dry locations but can fall victim to a disease called stem rot in warm, rainy weather. For thick, healthy plants we recommend that Dianthus be cut back as flowers fade to promote dense mats of foliage. Plants are not heavy feeders. A top dressing of bone and blood meals in early spring and an occasional liquid drench of fish emulsion is all that will be required.

Dianthus Info:

Zones: 3 - 8
Propagation: seed and cuttings
Problems: Overwatering can cause yellowing and stem rot
Notes: Dianthus planted in shade will flower less and become leggy- give the plants at least 6 hours of sun

Our Dianthus varieties:
(dy-ANN-thus)

Dianthus 'Bath's Pink'

Dianthus 'Arctic Fire'

Dianthus 'Brilliant'

Dianthus 'Firewitch'
2006 Perennial Plant of the Year

Dianthus 'Mountain Mist'