Cute as a Button Dianthus

Cute as a Button Dianthus (Dianthus 'Cute as a Button')

Cute as a Button Dianthus (Dianthus 'Cute as a Button') is a compact, fragrant perennial valued for charming pink blooms with a deeper eye and a classic clove like perfume. Flowering from late spring through summer with repeat flushes, this dwarf selection forms a neat evergreen mound of blue green foliage that adds year round texture in small gardens, rock gardens, and containers. Its tidy habit and nonstop color make it a reliable focal point for sunny, well drained spaces.

Distinctive Features

Abundant small semi double pink flowers with a darker center are held just above dense foliage for a clean presentation; sweet spicy fragrance enhances close up enjoyment and cutting.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best flowering.
• Soil: Well draining, neutral to alkaline soil; avoid heavy or waterlogged sites.
• Water: Moderate; allow the top inch to dry between waterings, good drought tolerance once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 6 to 10 inches tall and 10 to 14 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Late spring through summer with periodic rebloom.

Ideal Uses

• Edging and Borders: Low uniform cushions outline paths and bed fronts.
• Rock and Gravel Gardens: Thrives in sharply drained sites among sedum and thyme.
• Containers and Troughs: Dwarf size and fragrance suit patios and entries.
• Cottage and Pollinator Gardens: Nectar rich blooms support bees and butterflies.
• Small Space Design: Compact habit delivers high impact where space is limited.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist during establishment, then water deeply but infrequently.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers; a light shear after peak flush encourages quick 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 Cute as a Button Dianthus?

• Compact and Tidy: Perfect for small gardens, edging, and containers.
• Charming Pink Blooms: Fragrant semi double flowers with a vivid eye.
• Extended Bloom Window: Reliable color from late spring through summer with rebloom.
• Pollinator Friendly: Nectar supports bees and butterflies.
• Easy and Resilient: Evergreen mounds are deer resistant and thrive in sunny, well drained sites.

Conclusion

Dianthus 'Cute as a Button' combines sweet fragrance, cheerful color, and a compact evergreen form to deliver long season performance with minimal care in bright, well drained gardens.