Superstar Dianthus

Superstar Dianthus (Dianthus 'Superstar')

Superstar Dianthus (Dianthus 'Superstar') is a compact, fragrant perennial prized for vivid pink blooms with a bright star eye and lightly fringed petals. 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, rock gardens, and containers while providing a high impact focal point in sunny, well drained sites.

Distinctive Features

Abundant single to semi double pink flowers show a clean contrasting eye and sit just above tidy foliage for crisp presentation; the sweet clove like perfume enhances close up enjoyment and cutting.

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: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 8 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Late spring through summer with quick rebloom after light shearing.

Ideal Uses

• Edging and Borders: Low cushions outline paths and bed fronts with bright star eyed color.
• Rock and Gravel Gardens: Thrives in sharply drained sunny sites among sedum and thyme.
• Containers and Troughs: Compact habit and striking blooms suit patios and entries.
• Cottage and Cutting Gardens: Fragrant stems for small arrangements.
• Small Space Design: Clear eye pattern creates instant impact.

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 fast 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 Superstar Dianthus?

• High Contrast Star Eye: Bold center pattern reads from a distance.
• Extended Bloom Window: Reliable flowering from late spring through summer with rebloom.
• Fragrant and Pollinator Friendly: Clove scented flowers 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 'Superstar' combines vivid color, a crisp star eye, sweet fragrance, and a neat evergreen form to deliver long season impact in bright, well drained gardens with very little fuss.