Dianthus armeria
Deptford pink
A biennial with a rosette of green leaves at the base. The flowers are held aloft on stems of 50cm, and appear as clusters of dark pink single flowers, with very small white dots peppering the petals. Commonly known as the Deptford pink this precious native is one to treasure in wildflower meadows
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Pink White | Green | ||
Autumn | Pink White | Green | ||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright, 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
- Europe, W Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown in early spring or late autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Prairie planting
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead at the beginning of the flowering season and allow the seeds to form and drop late summer and early autumn
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust, a virus and fusarium wilt
Get involved
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