Dianthus carthusianorum
Carnation, Cluster-headed pink, Carthusian pink
Also known as Caryophyllus carthusianorum, Dianthus tenuifolius
- Height × spread
- 0.45m × 0.3m
- Position
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Colder than -20C (RHS H7)
- Flowers
- Summer
Availability
Generally available in Summer
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
This has grassy dark green foliage with long slender leaves and little flowers that are borne in clusters at the top of the long stems. The flowers are borne throughout summer. They are generally coloured red but may be pink or even white. The plant is variable and the petals, though generally fringed, are somewhat different in the various colonies. It is said to be named to honour the Carthusian order of monks. It was used by them in the treatment of muscular problems including rheumatism. It lives in dry conditions on sunny slopes and fields in its natural habitat and can become lanky if indulged. It is pollinated by butterflies. It may occasionally be found growing wild as an 'escapee'.
- Flower colour
- Purple, Red
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Fan
- Height
- 0.45m
- Spread
- 0.3m
- Season of interest
- Summer
- Flowers in
- Summer
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Small scale garden, Seaside garden, Prairie garden, Cottage garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun, tolerates part shade
- Soil type
- Chalk
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Drainage
- Well drained soil, Dry soil, Drought resistant
- Hardiness
- Colder than -20C (RHS H7)
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Bee attraction, Butterfly attraction
- Hazards
- Yes, potentially harmful; Humans: Skin allergen
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed with slow release fertiliser
Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water in dry periods
Established plants in the ground can cope with 7-10 days of dryness, and shrubs often manage 2 to 3 weeks. Water one section of the garden thoroughly each day rather than a little everywhere. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather.
Planting & general
Planting
Deadhead blooms during flowering season
Remove flowers as they turn brown and fade. Snip the stem just below the bloom. This will keep the plant tidy and encourage more flowers.
The removal of spent flowers encourages the plant to produce fresh ones, rather than spend its energy on the development of seeds.
Compost · Planting
Multi-purpose compost
Use a good quality peat-free multi-purpose compost when growing in pots and containers.
Found in
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