Perennials – 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