Passion Dianthus

Passion Dianthus (Dianthus 'Passion')

Passion Dianthus (Dianthus 'Passion'), also known as garden pink and carnation, is a compact evergreen perennial valued for vivid clove scented blooms and tidy blue green foliage. It flowers from late spring through summer with repeat flushes into fall, adding reliable color to borders, rock gardens, and containers, and the bold magenta blooms can serve as a focal point in small spaces.

Distinctive Features

Single to semi double magenta flowers rise above neat mounds, offering a classic spicy fragrance ideal for cutting and small bouquets.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best flowering.
• Soil: Well draining, neutral to alkaline soil; avoid heavy saturated sites.
• Water: Moderate; allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 10 to 14 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer with periodic rebloom.

Ideal Uses

• Edging and Borders: Compact habit defines paths and bed fronts.
• Containers: Fragrant color for patios and entryways.
• Rock and Cottage Gardens: Thrives in lean well drained spots.
• Cutting Gardens: Long lasting scented stems for arrangements.
• Pollinator Plantings: Nectar source for bees and butterflies.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep infrequent watering promotes strong roots; avoid constant wetness.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to extend flowering.
• Feeding: Light spring application of balanced slow release fertilizer; do not overfeed.
• Pruning: Shear lightly after peak flushes to maintain shape and encourage rebloom.
• Mulching: A thin gravel or bark layer improves drainage and keeps crowns dry.
• Winter Care: Ensure sharp drainage in cold wet periods to prevent crown rot.

Why Choose Passion Dianthus?

• Bold Color and Fragrance: Vivid magenta blooms and classic clove scent elevate beds and bouquets.
• Season Long Interest: Extended bloom window with repeat flushes.
• Compact and Tidy: Easy to place at the front of borders and in containers.
• Pollinator Friendly: Supports bees and beneficial insects.
• Easy Care and Deer Resistant: Thrives with minimal upkeep in sunny well drained sites.

Conclusion

With saturated color, timeless perfume, and a neat evergreen form, Passion Dianthus delivers dependable performance in containers, edging, and cutting gardens with very little fuss.