Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Dianthus caryophyllus or Carnation

The genus Dianthus, family Caryophyllaceae, includes 300 species of herbaceous plants native to Europe and Asia. Some species are: Dianthus caryophyllus, Dianthus barbatus, Dianthus anatolicus, Dianthus alpinus, Dianthus sinensis, Dianthus rupicola.

Common names: Clove pink, Border Carnation and Carnation. This species is native to the Mediterranean region.

They are herbaceous plants of compact size that reach 1 meter (3.28 feet) in height, depending on the variety. The leaves are linear, rigid and light green or greyish in color. The most interesting are the flowers, sometimes scented, which present a great variety of colors, sizes and shapes (double and single). They can bloom almost all year round.

They are used in rockeries, on slopes, in flowerbeds, in pots for balconies, terraces and patios and as cut flowers.

Dianthus caryophyllus needs full or bright sun exposure and a warm-temperate climate. They do not resist frost.

The soil can be a normal slightly loamy garden substrate, drained with coarse sand and enriched with manure and leaf mulch.

Water regularly, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. They have some resistance to drought.

Fertilize every 3 weeks with mineral fertilizer during spring and summer.

Faded flowers should be pruned.

They can be attacked by insects, viruses, worms, and fungi.

They are propagated from seed sown in spring or fall in seedbeds and by cuttings in fall.

Images of the plant Dianthus caryophyllus or Carnation