Delilah Purple Dianthus

Delilah Purple Dianthus (Dianthus plumarius 'Delilah Purple')

Delilah Purple Dianthus (Dianthus plumarius 'Delilah Purple') is a compact, mat forming perennial prized for deep purple blooms with delicately fringed petals and a classic clove like perfume. Flowering from late spring through summer, it forms a low evergreen mound of blue green foliage that adds year round texture in borders, rock gardens, and containers, creating a vivid focal point in sunny, well drained spaces.

Distinctive Features

Abundant semi double purple flowers with finely cut edges open above tidy foliage for a crisp presentation; the sweet spicy fragrance invites close up enjoyment and cutting.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best flowering and dense habit.
• Soil: Well draining, neutral to alkaline soil; avoid heavy or waterlogged sites.
• Water: Moderate; allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings, tolerates brief dryness once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 8 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Late spring through summer with periodic rebloom after light shearing.

Ideal Uses

• Edging and Borders: Low cushions define paths and bed fronts with rich color.
• Rock and Gravel Gardens: Thrives in sharply drained, sunny sites.
• Containers and Troughs: Compact habit and fragrance suit patios and entries.
• Cottage and Pollinator Gardens: Nectar rich flowers support bees and butterflies.
• Mass Plantings: Repeat in drifts for a saturated ribbon of purple.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist during establishment, then water deeply but infrequently.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms; shear lightly after peak flush to encourage fast rebloom and a tight mound.
• Feeding: Apply a light dose of balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring; avoid excess nitrogen.
• Mulch and Soil: Favor mineral mulches such as gravel to keep crowns dry and improve drainage.
• Grooming: Clear winter tired foliage in late winter to refresh growth.

Why Choose Delilah Purple Dianthus?

• Rich Purple Blooms: Bold color adds drama in small spaces and mixed plantings.
• Extended Bloom Window: Reliable flowering from late spring into summer with quick rebloom.
• Highly Fragrant: Classic clove scent enhances gardens and small bouquets.
• Drought and Heat Tolerant: Performs in sunny, lean soils once established.
• Easy and Deer Resistant: Compact evergreen mounds stay tidy with minimal care.

Conclusion

Dianthus plumarius 'Delilah Purple' combines saturated color, sweet fragrance, and a neat evergreen form to deliver long season performance in bright, well drained gardens with very little fuss.