Dianthus hybrid
(sold as Spangled Star)
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Common names: CARNATION, PINK
Sentiments: dianthus means make haste, pink means pure love
Plant
Type: perennial
Forms: clumping, erect, open form
Leaves evergreen
Max height: 0.65 feet
Max width: 0.65 feet
Flower
pink, secondary color present
Leaf
green
Horticulture
Attracts wildlife: hummingbird, specific butterfly species
Plant part consumed by birds: nectar
Plant features: evergreen
Exposure: sun
Landscape uses: container, cut flower
Propagates by: seed
flowers in spring
flowers in summer
Soil type: loam
USDA Zone: zone 9 to +20 f
Temp. range: +20 to +30 °F
Water: regular
Butterflies that feed on this plant
flower
flower
flower
Dianthus, or PINKS, is a member of the Caryophyllaceae family. There are 442 species in the genus of which 8 are cultivated perennials – arenarius, barbatus, carthusianorum, caryophyllus, deltoids, gratianopolitanus, knappii, and pulmarius. There are also numerous cultivars available such as Telstar, Raspberry Swirl, Pixie Star, and Spangled Star. All require regular watering, grow 1-1 ½ feet tall, can be grown in containers, and variously thrive in Zones 3-10.
The butterfly Papilio rutulus, WESTERN TIGER SWALLOWTAIL will feed on Dianthus blossoms.
