Dianthus 'Rainbow Loveliness' (p,a)

RHS Plant Profile
annual pink 'Rainbow Loveliness'
Annual Biennial Bedding

A seed strain of hardy annuals, with narrow, grey-green leaves. Produces clusters of flowers with heavily fringed petals, in shades of pink, purple and white, in summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand, Clay

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 Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

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 fertile, well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed, sown in containers in early spring at 13-15°C

Suggested planting locations and garden types

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

Pruning

Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

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