Dianthus chinensis (p,a)

RHS Plant Profile
Chinese pink

Other common names

French mignonette, Japanese pink, rainbow pink, Indian pink, China pink

Synonyms

Dianthus sinensis

Herbaceous Perennial

A very variable species that is native to a vast area, from Europe into Asia. A short-lived herbaceous perennial, but plants bred from this species are often grown as annuals or biennials. Single flowers with fringed edges are typically pink, but can be white or red, often with a dark purple central ring or eye, held above green leaves

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand, Chalk

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

Loam Sand Chalk
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral or Alkaline

Position

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

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
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
Unresolved
Horticultural Group
Annual Pinks are brightly coloured, low-growing bushy plants which are grown for a single season for bedding, borders or pots and containers. Some may survive winter or self-seed

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in a well-drained soil in a sunny position

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings of non-flowering shoots in summer or by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Bedding
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. Lightly trim after flowering or in spring

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

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