Raspberry Surprise Dianthus

Raspberry Surprise Dianthus (Dianthus 'Raspberry Surprise')

Raspberry Surprise Dianthus (Dianthus 'Raspberry Surprise') is a compact, fragrant perennial prized for creamy white to soft pink double blooms accented by a bold raspberry red ring. Flowering from late spring through summer with repeat flushes, it forms a neat evergreen mound of blue green foliage that adds year round texture in borders, containers, and rock gardens while delivering crisp bicolor contrast in sunny, well drained sites.

Distinctive Features

Full, frilly double flowers show a clean white background with a vivid raspberry eye for strong definition; the sweet clove like perfume invites close up enjoyment and makes excellent cutting stems.

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: Thrives in sharply drained sunny sites.
• Containers and Troughs: Compact habit and bicolor blooms suit patios and entries.
• Cottage and Cutting Gardens: Fragrant double flowers for small arrangements.
• Small Space Design: High contrast eye creates a clear 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 Raspberry Surprise Dianthus?

• Bold Bicolor Doubles: White petals with a raspberry ring read from a distance.
• Extended Bloom Window: Reliable color from late spring through summer with rebloom.
• Fragrant and Pollinator Friendly: Clove scented blooms attract bees and butterflies.
• 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 'Raspberry Surprise' delivers crisp bicolor petals, sweet fragrance, and a neat evergreen form to provide long season impact in bright, well drained gardens with very little fuss.