Alpine Dianthus

Alpine Dianthus

　　Alpine Dianthus

　　Morphological characteristics: A member of the Caryophyllaceae family, genus Dianthus, it is a low-growing perennial herb reaching 5–10 cm in height. The leaves are green, glossy, and blunt-tipped; basal leaves are linear-lanceolate, with narrow bases and fine serrations; there are 2–5 pairs of stem leaves. The flowers are solitary, 5–6 cm in diameter, pink in color with a purple throat featuring white spots and ring patterns, and are unscented; the flowering period is from July to September.

　　Growth habits: Perennial Dianthus species prefer cool and slightly moist environments. Sandy soil is ideal, and poor drainage should be avoided. They can be sown in spring or autumn in open fields; in cold regions, spring or autumn sowing in cold frames or hotbeds is suitable. Seedlings usually undergo two transplantings before being planted in their final positions. Division propagation is often carried out in April.

　　Landscape use: Dianthus can be used for flower bed and border plantings. Low-growing and clumping varieties are also suitable for cut flowers, as well as for rock gardens and edging.