Dianthus chinensis (p,a)
Chinese pink
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
Synonyms
Dianthus sinensis
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Neutral, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Pink Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- 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
Unresolved
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
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust, a virus and fusarium wilt
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.