Subshrubby Pink
dianthus subacaulis
Also known as: ["Subshrubby Pink","Dianthus subacaulis"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen perennial with fragrant, pink flowers and narrow, grass-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Dianthus |
| Botanical Name: | Dianthus subacaulis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, raised beds, or containers in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent blooms regularly; light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with protection from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust based on seasonal intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; provide shade during peak summer heat; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun during hottest hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost; heat stress occurs above 85°F (29°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for indoor plants.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape and promote bushiness.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased parts; shape the plant; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, flowers fade quickly, and growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply in the early morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDianthus subacaulis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicDianthus subacaulis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicDianthus subacaulis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. It is generally considered safe for handling and incidental ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Dianthus subacaulis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Dianthus subacaulis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Dianthus subacaulis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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