Dianthus Fast Facts: Maiden Pinks, Sweet Williams, and Carnations

Overview

Three Dianthus varieties are common in gardens: Maiden Pinks, Sweet Williams, and Carnations. All have small red, pink, or white flowers in spring and early summer.

Maiden Pinks (Dianthus deltoides)

Annual, reseeds easily. Blue-green foliage forms dense mat in cool climates; centers die out in hot humidity. Grow in well-drained alkaline soil, full sun. Drought-tolerant.

Sweet Williams (Dianthus barbatus)

Annual in cool climates, perennial in warm. Often short-lived even as perennials. Plant in full sun, well-drained alkaline soil. Divide every 2–3 years to prolong life. Reseeds; if seeds removed, new plants form at base.

Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus)

Popular cut flowers for florists. Grow in well-drained alkaline soil, full sun. More humidity-tolerant than other Dianthus.

Uses

Borders, groundcover, underplantings for roses/shrubs, containers.

Pests and Diseases

Susceptible to Fusarium wilt, root rot, crown rot. Aphids, grasshoppers, or mites may attack.