Dianthus hyssopifolius

Synonyms

Dianthus monspessulanus
Dianthus monspessulanus subsp. waldsteinii
Dianthus sternbergii
Dianthus monspessulanus subsp. sternbergii
Dianthus monspessulanus subsp. monspessulanus
Dianthus monspeliacus
Dianthus waldsteinii

Alpine Rockery Herbaceous Perennial

A cushion-forming evergreen perennial with narrow grey-green leaves. The deeply fringed pale pink flowers are held above the foliage on slender stems, reaching up to 40cm in height, flowering freely through the summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

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

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Matforming
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
Correct
Plant Range
C & S Europe

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in a well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Plants will benefit from being divided about every five years

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings of non-flowering shoots in summer (Dianthus cuttings are known as pipings) or by layering after flowering or by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Deadhead regularly 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