Dianthus monspessulanus (07/06/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun
Flowering period: Late spring to summer
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 20cm
Eventual Spread: 60cm
Hardiness: 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Dianthus monspessulanus is an evergreen perennial, with a mat forming habit. Its glaucous green leaves are linear with entire margins, up to 10cm long and 3mm wide. Its fragrant pink/ white flowers are up to 3cm across.
Dianthus monspessulanus, commonly known as Fringed Pink, is native to south and central Europe. In its native habitat it grows on arid grassland, woodlands and heathland.
The etymological root of the binomial name Dianthus is derived from the Greek dios meaning ‘heavenly’ and anthos meaning ‘flower’. Monspessulanus
The landscape architect may find Dianthus monspessulanus useful as an effective low growing, evergreen ground cover perennial. This perennial is not attractive to deer.
Dianthus monspessulanus Flower (07/06/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Ecologically, Dianthus monspessulanus is attractive to nectar loving insects and birds.
Dianthus monspessulanus prefers moist, humus rich, well-drained soils. It prefers a neutral to alkali pH of soil although it will tolerate most soils. It will not tolerate wet soils.
Dianthus monspessulanus requires little maintenance. Large/ mature clumps may be divided in spring or autumn.
