Stargazer Dianthus

Stargazer Dianthus (Dianthus 'Stargazer')

Stargazer Dianthus is a compact, mounding perennial that covers neat blue-green foliage with crisp white flowers featuring a rich burgundy eye. Its tidy habit, fragrance, and long bloom window make a polished edging and container accent for sunny sites.

Distinctive Features

High-contrast white petals with a bold burgundy center read clearly in the garden and in small bouquets. Sturdy stems and clove scent enhance front-of-border impact beyond peak bloom.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best flowering and compact habit.
• Soil: Well drained, moderately fertile soil; slightly alkaline conditions preferred.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist but never waterlogged.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 0.75 to 1 ft tall and 1 to 1.5 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Clean white blooms with a burgundy eye create vivid front-of-border contrast.
• Edging: Low, tidy mounds define paths and bed lines cleanly.
• Containers: Performs in patio pots with sharp drainage and regular deadheading.
• Rock Gardens: Compact habit suits gravelly, sunny sites.
• Cut Flowers: Long-lasting, clove-scented stems elevate small arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply, then allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between cycles.
• Pruning: Deadhead promptly and shear lightly after flushes to encourage rebloom.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring and again midsummer with a balanced fertilizer.
• Mulching: Use a thin gravel or bark mulch, keeping mulch off the crown to prevent rot.
• Notes: Ensure excellent winter drainage; avoid heavy, wet soils and overcrowding.

Why Choose Stargazer Dianthus?

• Striking Contrast: White petals with a burgundy eye read clearly in the landscape.
• Repeat Bloom: Reliable rebloom with regular deadheading and light shearing.
• Fragrance: Classic clove scent enhances paths and patios.
• Compact Habit: Neat cushions stay upright without flopping.
• Versatile Use: Equally effective in beds, borders, rock gardens, and containers.

Plant in full sun with sharp drainage, deadhead consistently, and pair with summer bloomers to maintain a continuous color display.