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Herbaceous PerennialConservatory Greenhouse

Dianthus 'Kristina' (pf)

perpetual-flowering carnation 'Kristina'

A half-hardy evergreen perennial that grows to about 1m, with slightly fragrant fully double flowers of very pale pink; the petals have sharply-toothed margins, finely-edged reddish-purple and sparsely-flecked and streaked with deep purplish-red. Strong growth and consistently good flowering throughout the year

Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink Purple Green Grey Silver
Summer Pink Purple Green Grey Silver
Autumn Pink Purple Green Grey Silver
Winter Pink Purple Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: Skin allergen, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Dianthus can be annuals, evergreen perennials or subshrubs with narrow, often greyish leaves and showy flowers that are frequently fragrant

Name status

Accepted

Horticultural Group
Perpetual flowering carnations are half-hardy evergreen perennials grown under glass for cut flowers and for exhibition. Given temperatures above 10°C, they can flower all year round, the blooms to 10cm across, sometimes scented

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass at 7 to 10°C in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright filtered light with good ventilation. In winter provide low humidity and full light. When in growth water moderately and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 10 days

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings of non-flowering shoots in late winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering and promote a compact habit

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust, a virus and fusarium wilt

Get involved

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