Tickled Pink Dianthus

Tickled Pink Dianthus (Dianthus 'Tickled Pink')

Tickled Pink Dianthus (Dianthus 'Tickled Pink') is a compact, floriferous perennial prized for fully double soft pink blooms with delicate fringed edges 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 lending a warm, inviting focal point to sunny, well drained spaces.

Distinctive Features

Abundant ruffled double flowers in clear pink are held just above tidy foliage for a clean presentation; 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; 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 soft color and texture.
• Rock and Gravel Gardens: Thrives in sharply drained sunny sites among sedum and thyme.
• Containers and Troughs: Compact habit and plush doubles suit patios and entries.
• Cottage and Cutting Gardens: Long lasting, scented stems for small arrangements.
• Small Space Design: Petite form provides high impact in tight plantings.

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 Tickled Pink Dianthus?

• Soft Pink Double Blooms: Elegant ruffles add refined texture and romance.
• Extended Bloom Window: Reliable color from late spring through summer with rebloom.
• Highly Fragrant: Sweet clove scent enriches gardens 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 'Tickled Pink' combines plush double petals, sweet fragrance, and a neat evergreen form to deliver long season impact in bright, well drained gardens with very little fuss.