Dianthus 'Lady Windermere' (M)

RHS Plant Profile
carnation 'Lady Windermere'
Herbaceous Perennial Conservatory Greenhouse

An evergreen perennial to about 70cm, grown under glass for cutting, and flowering sporadically throughout the year. Foliage is grey-green, relatively broad, and curled; double flowers are white with pink streaks, and strongly scented

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: Skin allergenwear 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
Malmaison carnations are a heritage variety, originating from France, recognised for their large, clove-scented pale pink, frilly flowers

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

  • Cut flowers
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

Deadhead to prolong flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

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