- Dianthus
Botanical name: dianthus caryophyllus
Beginner friendly?: yes
Average size at maturity: about a foot in height and in width
Bloom time: spring and summer
Hardy zone: zones 6 – 9
Flower color: white, red, pink, purple
Foliage color: green
Growth rate: can reach mature size in first or second growing season
Pruning instructions: deadhead as needed
Propagation methods: cut a stem just below a node and place in water until roots start to emerge
Landscape use: herbaceous garden border
Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun a day
Special features: fragrant flowers
Watering instructions: water every 3-4 weeks. Water more often during periods of constant drought
Fertilizing instructions : use a slow release fertilizer in the spring before the first blooms of the season
Best time to plant: spring or fall
Best type of soil: adapts to all kinds of soil
Companion plants: petunias, pansies, lavender
Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets
Invasive species: no