"Dianthus caryophyllus - Carnation"

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USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9

Height: 18 in (45 cm)

Spread: 18 in (45 cm)

Type: herbaceous perennial

Flowers: Pink, red, salmon, white, yellow.

Growing Carnations

Comments: Carnations are not fully hardy in northern climates and so are sometimes treated as annuals. They prefer a fertile, well-drained soil and a sunny location. Flowers need support to keep them out of the soil. The foliage is grayish-green.

Propagation

Propagation is by cuttings or seed. The seed germinates in 2 to 3 weeks at 65 to 75 degrees F (19 - 24 deg C).

Cultivars

The Grenadin hybrids generally have stouter stems than the Chabauds, hence require no or little support.

'Cardinal' (Grenadin hybrid) - Bright scarlet flowers.
'Giant Chabaud Mixed' - Fringed and double flowers in a wide range of colors.
'Golden Sun' (Grenadin hybrid) - Yellow flowers.
'Innocence' (Grenadin hybrid)- White flowers.
'King of Black' (Grenadin hybrid) - Very dark red.
'Lillipot' - Dwarf plants bearing small flowers on plants 8 to 10 inches (20 - 25 cm) tall. Suitable for containers.
'Peach Delight' - Peach pink blooms on sturdy stems.
'Red Riding Hood' - Cherry-red flowers.
'Triumph Rose' (Grenadin hybrid) - Pink flowers.

References for Cultivars: Walters Gardens 1997, Thompson and Morgan 1997, Bailey Nurseries 1997.

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This information kindly supplied by Michigan State University Extension, Ornamental Plants.

Photo provided by kind permission of 'image: size-isnt-everything.co.uk'

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