Eastern Star Dianthus

Eastern Star Dianthus (Dianthus 'Eastern Star')

Eastern Star Dianthus (Dianthus 'Eastern Star') is a compact, low growing perennial valued for deep red blooms with a dark maroon eye and a classic clove like perfume. Flowering from late spring through summer, it forms a dense evergreen mound of blue green foliage that adds year round texture in borders, rock gardens, and containers, delivering bold color in sunny, well drained sites and creating a small space focal point.

Distinctive Features

Abundant semi double rich red flowers with a darker center sit just above finely textured foliage for crisp contrast; selected for extended bloom, compact habit, and reliable performance in dry, sunny conditions.

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 dry spells 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 uniform cushions outline paths and bed fronts with saturated color.
• Rock and Gravel Gardens: Thrives in sharply drained sunny sites.
• Containers and Troughs: Compact habit and bright flowers suit patios and entries.
• Cottage and Pollinator Gardens: Nectar rich blooms support bees and butterflies.
• Mass Plantings: Repeat in drifts for a high impact ribbon of red.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist during establishment, then water deeply but infrequently.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms; shear lightly after peak flush to encourage 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 Eastern Star Dianthus?

• Deep Red Contrast: Bold color reads from a distance and pairs well with silver or blue foliage.
• Extended Bloom Window: Reliable flowering from late spring through summer with quick rebloom.
• Heat and Drought Tolerant: Performs in sunny lean soils once established.
• Fragrant and Pollinator Friendly: Clove scented blooms attract bees and butterflies.
• Easy and Deer Resistant: Compact evergreen mounds stay tidy with minimal care.

Conclusion

Dianthus 'Eastern Star' combines saturated color, sweet fragrance, and a neat evergreen form to deliver long season performance in bright, well drained gardens with very little fuss.