Dianthus plumarius

A perennial species with a cushion-like growth habit.

The plant has short, branched stems, tending to woody at the base. Its small, lanceolate, blue leaves are arranged spirally to form dense rosettes. The plant takes on a cushion-like shape, covering the ground or rocks on which it grows. Single flowers appear in May, borne on long petioles that far exceed the leaves. The scented, five-petaled flowers, fringed at the edges, are solid pink or with a darker spot at the base. The flowering is abundant and very showy, lasting about a month.

This species grows wild in the eastern Alps and the northwestern Balkan Peninsula. In the wild, it grows in mountainous areas between rock crevices or in stony, preferably calcareous, soil.

It therefore requires well-drained soil, even in rock gardens, and a position in full sun. Water only when the soil is dry. It is tolerant of summer droughts.

Completely hardy.

Potted plant.