Alpine dianthus

Usually under 15cm tall, they form tight mounds or spreading mats of fine foliage, frequently grey-green or silver-blue. The small flowers, often with delicately fringed petals, are typically pink, white or magenta, and are often fragrant.

They thrive in full sun and sharply drained, poor to moderately fertile soil – ideally with an alkaline or neutral pH, such as chalky or limey soils. If your soil does not suit them, they can be grown in containers too.

Alpine Dianthus dislike damp, heavy or shaded conditions. Low temperatures rarely cause problems, but too much winter wet can kill them. Shelter more delicate types in an unheated greenhouse or cold frame over winter.

Maiden pink (Dianthus deltoides) and Cheddar pink (D. gratianopolitanus) are garden favourites and native to Great Britain. Though small, they are tough plants adapted to sunny, rocky, free-draining sites.