Peppermint Star Dianthus

Peppermint Star Dianthus (Dianthus 'Peppermint Star')

Peppermint Star Dianthus (Dianthus 'Peppermint Star') is a compact, eye catching perennial valued for crisp bicolor blooms that combine bright white petals with a vivid magenta pink eye and a classic clove like perfume. Flowering from late spring through summer with repeat flushes, it forms a dense evergreen mound of blue green foliage that adds year round texture in borders, containers, and rock gardens while delivering strong contrast in sunny, well drained sites.

Distinctive Features

Semi double flowers create a starburst effect, with clean white petals and a bold pink center held just above tidy foliage for a sharp, modern look; the sweet spicy fragrance enhances close up enjoyment and cutting garden use.

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; let the top inch of soil dry between waterings, tolerates brief dryness once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 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 outline paths and bed fronts with bright contrast.
• Rock and Gravel Gardens: Excels in sharply drained sunny sites among sedum and thyme.
• Containers and Troughs: Compact habit and striking bicolor flowers suit patios and entries.
• Cottage and Cutting Gardens: Fragrant stems for small arrangements.
• Small Space Design: High contrast blooms create a strong focal point.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist during establishment, then water deeply but infrequently.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms; 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 Peppermint Star Dianthus?

• Unique Bicolor Star Pattern: Clean white petals with a bold pink eye read from a distance.
• Extended Bloom Window: Reliable color from late spring through summer with rebloom.
• Highly Fragrant: Sweet clove scent enhances outdoor spaces and bouquets.
• Heat and Drought Tolerant: Performs in sunny lean soils once established.
• Easy and Deer Resistant: Compact evergreen mounds stay tidy with minimal care.

Conclusion

Dianthus 'Peppermint Star' delivers sharp bicolor contrast, sweet fragrance, and a neat evergreen form, providing long season impact in bright, well drained gardens with very little fuss.