Lip Gloss Dianthus

Lip Gloss Dianthus (Dianthus 'Lip Gloss')

Lip Gloss Dianthus (Dianthus 'Lip Gloss') is a compact, fragrant perennial valued for soft pink blooms with a bold deep pink eye and a classic clove like perfume. Flowering from late spring through summer with repeat flushes, it forms a tidy evergreen mound of blue green foliage that adds year round texture in borders, containers, and rock gardens, creating a soft yet striking focal point in sunny, well drained spaces.

Distinctive Features

Profuse semi double pink flowers with a darker eye and lightly fringed petals sit just above neat foliage for crisp contrast; selected for extended bloom, strong heat resistance, and reliable garden performance.

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.
• 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 define paths and bed fronts with soft color.
• Containers and Troughs: Compact habit and fragrant blooms suit patios and entries.
• Rock and Gravel Gardens: Thrives in sharply drained sunny sites.
• Cottage and Cutting Gardens: Sweetly scented stems for small arrangements.
• Mass Plantings: Repeat in drifts for a gentle ribbon of pink.

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 Lip Gloss Dianthus?

• Soft Pink Blooms with Dark Eye: Elegant contrast that brightens small spaces.
• 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 'Lip Gloss' combines refined color, sweet fragrance, and a neat evergreen form to deliver long season impact in bright, well drained gardens with very little fuss.