Cheddar Pink (Dianthus gratianopolitanus)

Cheddar Pink

Dianthus gratianopolitanus

Its clove-scented blooms bring cottage-garden charm to rockeries. Evergreen herbaceous perennial; common name: Cheddar Pink.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind and dry, exposed growing conditions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; tolerates moderate summer heat with adequate soil drainage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, gray-green, linear evergreen leaves forming dense, weed-suppressing mats
  • Flower: Fragrant, pink to deep rose double blooms with fringed, ruffled petals
  • Stem: Slender, upright green stems bearing terminal flower clusters
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active bloom period; supplement water during prolonged dry spells

Fertilization

Light, diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote bloom production rather than foliage growth

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days, dilute 1:10 with water for root drench; avoid applying to foliage
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period
  • Trim back foliage lightly after bloom to maintain a compact, tidy mat
  • Remove brown or damaged leaves in early spring to refresh growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no risk of poisoning from ingestion or contact

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes love, admiration, and fidelity in traditional floriography

Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant; cut flower for small, fragrant bouquets