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Herbaceous Perennial

Dianthus petraeus

rock pink

An evergreen perennial which forms cushions to 10cm high, of grey-green narrow leaves. In summer it has white flowers with five petals which may be smooth-edged, toothed or deeply fringed and are sweetly scented

Other common names
fragrant snowflake garden pink
Synonyms
Dianthus suendermannii
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Grey Silver Green
Summer White Grey Silver Green
Autumn Grey Silver Green
Winter Grey Silver Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Tufted, Matforming
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: Skin allergen, wear 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

Correct

Plant range
Romania, Balkans

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil, ideally slightly alkaline, in good light

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in spring, or by softwood cuttings of non-flowering shoots in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Banks and slopes
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

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

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