Dianthus 'Fragrant Ann' (pf)

RHS Plant Profile
perpetually flowering carnation 'Fragrant Ann'
Award of Garden Merit
Herbaceous Perennial Conservatory Greenhouse

An evergreen perennial with grey-green leaves. This carnation has creamy-white double flowers, with a spicy, clove-like fragrance

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand, Chalk

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 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
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
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
Accepted
Horticultural Group
Perpetual flowering carnations are half-hardy evergreen perennials grown under glass for cut flowers and for exhibition. Given temperatures above 10 degrees, they can flower all year round, the blooms to 10cm across, sometimes scented

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in containers in a peat-free compost with added perlite. When buds appear, feed with a high potassium liquid feed. Perpetual flowering carnations are often grown under glass all year but can be placed outside in summer. Stems will require staking. See staking perennials

Propagation

Propagate by cuttings taken from non-flowering stems; early spring is a good time to do this but cuttings can be taken any time from late winter through to late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Patio and container plants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

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