Dianthus caryophyllus

Dianthus caryophyllus

Biggest Plant Dictionary  | Dianthus caryophyllus | Family:Caryophyllaceae, Genus:Dianthus, Species:D. caryophyllus. Dianthus caryophyllus (Clove Pink) is a species of Dianthus.

It is probably native to the Mediterranean region but its exact range is unknown due to extensive cultivation for the last 2,000 years. It is the wild ancestor of the garden Carnation. it is a herbaceous perennial plant growing to 80 cm tall. The leaves are glaucous greyish green to blue-green, slender, up to 15 cm long. The flowers are produced singly or up to five together in a cyme; they are 3–5 cm diameter, and sweetly scented; the original natural flower colour is bright pinkish-purple, but cultivars of other colours, including red, white, yellow and green, have been developed.

Carnations may be treated as annuals or short-lived perennials in the garden. Plants form a low mound of grassy grey-green leaves, bearing upright stems of fully double, florist-type flowers in shades of rose and pink. Wonderful spicy-clove fragrance. Excellent for cutting. Good drainage is essential for winter hardiness. Plants perform best in areas with cool summers. Divide clumps every second spring, or plant new ones to maintain vigour.