Dianthus

Botanical/Latin
   Dianthus

Pronunciation
   dye-anth-us

Common Name
   Pinks, Carnation

Hardiness zone range
   3 - 7

General Comments
Low spreading mounds of evergreen, silvery or bluish green, grass-like foliage and exquisitely beautiful, little single or double flowers in spring and early summer. Many have a deliciously sweet, spicy fragrance that pervades the air and delightfully advertises their presence as it wafts across the garden. There are about 250 species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, the majority of which occur in Europe.

Uses
They are excellent on raised beds, sunny banks, or rock gardens, where they tumble and spread over rocks or retaining structures. In nature, they inhabit rocky, open locations, where they have to be tough and drought tolerant. They are very much at home in roof and balcony gardens, in low maintenance gravel gardens, as edging along paths and driveways and, of course, in beds and borders. They can be planted in containers, seasonal window boxes, or herb gardens. The nectar rich flowers are magnets for hummingbirds and butterflies. They are superb as cut flowers; they last well, are easy to arrange, and just a few little buds picked as a miniature posy make a lovely impression.

Light Preference
Sunny, open positions.

Culture
Thriving in well drained soil types, it is important to avoid waterlogged conditions. They are best in sandy or chalky soils where the pH is around neutral (pH 7). It is a good idea to add extra grit or sand and perhaps a dressing of ground limestone at planting time; this is particularly important with clay soils or in areas of high rainfall.

After flowering, shear back the old flower heads when most have finished flowering. This will keep the mounds neat and tidy, encourage fresh growth, and with most varieties encourage successive flushes of flowers through the summer and into autumn.

Background
Pinks have been admired since ancient times for their fragrance and beauty. These humble little flowers became known as the divine flower; it is from the Greek words dios and anthos, meaning divine flower, that the name Dianthus is derived.

The common name pink, comes from the word pinct which refers to the edges of the petals which are scalloped or "pinked". This word then became established to describe and label the color- pink. The colloquial phrase "in the pink" also comes from these little flowers; they were thought to be so perfect that to be "in the pink" was to be in perfect health. Cherished and cultivated for many centuries, it is not surprising that over the years several forms and selections have arisen. Occurring both in nature and as distinct garden forms, they have generated a great deal of affection by those who have cultivated and admired them. Carnations, Sweet Williams, and the double garden pinks all belong to this important group. Arguably, the most beautiful are the single forms; the sweet, spicy, clove-like scent is particularly appealing, especially those descended from Dianthus gratianopolitanus the Cheddar pink (so called because it is found in the Cheddar Gorge in England).

Splendor Suggestions
One of the most pleasant experiences associated with gardening is enjoying the sweet scent of garden pinks wafting gently in a breeze on a warm summer evening. Our sense of smell is often overlooked, especially when gardening, and yet, once the scent of certain plants are experienced, it remains locked in our memory for a lifetime. The wonderful scent of single Dianthus is an example of a memory maker. We suggest planting groups of pinks around garden benches and seats, patios, decks, living room and kitchen windows, or in sheltered corners down wind, where the scent will be carried on the wings of a gentle breeze.

Companion Plants
Other fragrant plants that could be included would be some of the many shades of garden Phlox, consider Phlox 'Blue Boy' or the richly fragrant white Phlox 'David'.

Herbs like Lavender and Thyme and perhaps a clump of two of oriental lilies; Lilium 'Muscadet', 'Mona Lisa' or the ever popular 'Stargazer' are good choices.

The grayish, silvery leaves blend easily with most subjects, so finding compatible color partners is not difficult and the possibilities are endless. Consider planting with early and late interest plants to extend the seasonal performance. Try some Armeria (Sea Thrift) for early color, Geranium 'Ballerina' and Helianthemums for summer, and perhaps some Sedums or the lower growing grasses for fall.