Carthusian Pink
dianthus carthusianorum
Also known as: ["Carthusian Pink","Carthusian Pink Clover"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with slender stems and narrow, linear leaves, producing small, pink to lilac flowers in summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Dianthus |
| Botanical Name: | Dianthus carthusianorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly gritty soil; mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants regularly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight indoors; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights and warmer days.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems; shape the plant as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering; remove spent blooms to prolong blooming period.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape lightly.
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.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring excess drains away.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and flowering can be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDianthus carthusianorum is not known to be toxic to cats. Ingestion is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDianthus carthusianorum is not known to be toxic to dogs. Ingestion is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDianthus carthusianorum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Dianthus carthusianorum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought tolerant.
Q: Does Carthusian Pink attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Dianthus carthusianorum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, provided the soil is well-drained and it receives full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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