Dianthus armeria

RHS Plant Profile
Deptford pink

Other common names

penigan y porfeydd

Annual Biennial

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

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
1–2 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
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

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

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