Contents
Description
Dianthus Caryophyllus, commonly known as the Carnation flower, is a perennial flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae and is one of the most popular cut flowers in the world. The Carnation flower has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and has a long history of use in religious ceremonies, weddings, and other special occasions. It is also used in the perfume industry for its sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Dianthus |
Appearance
The Carnation flower has a distinctive ruffled appearance with a single bloom per stem. It comes in a range of colors including white, pink, red, yellow, and purple. The petals are often fringed and have a serrated edge. The leaves are narrow and grey-green in color. The plant can grow up to 80cm in height and has a compact, bushy growth habit.
Care Guide
The Carnation flower is relatively easy to care for and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips for taking care of your Carnation plant:
- Water: Water your Carnation plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting the leaves wet as this can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Carnation plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The Carnation plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The Carnation plant requires full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Carnation plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Carnation flower is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the foliage.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can damage the flowers by feeding on the petals and causing them to distort and discolor.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause gray mold to form on the leaves and flowers, leading to rotting and wilting.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Habitat
The Carnation flower is native to the Mediterranean region, but it is now widely cultivated around the world. It prefers a cool climate and can be grown in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-draining. The plant is commonly grown in gardens, as well as in greenhouses and as a cut flower crop.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Carnation flowers be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Carnation flowers can be grown indoors as long as they receive enough sunlight and are kept in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Carnation plant?
A: Fertilize your Carnation plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for Carnation soil?
A: The ideal pH level for Carnation soil is 6.0 to 6.5.
Q: Can Carnation flowers be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, Carnation flowers can be grown from seeds, but they may take up to two years to flower.
Related Plants
- Dianthus barbatus (Sweet William)
- Dianthus chinensis (China Pink)
- Dianthus gratianopolitanus (Cheddar Pink)
- Dianthus deltoides (Maiden Pink)
References
- “Dianthus Caryophyllus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 March 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280114&isprofile=0&=&returnUrl=%2fPlantFinder%2findex.aspx%3fadv%3d0%26ResForm%3d%26Traits%3d%26Height%3d%26Location%3d%26Texture%3d%26Feature%3d%26PlantType%3d%26Foliage%3d%26FlowerColor%3d%26Keyword%3dDianthus%2bcaryophyllus%26submit%3dFind%2bPlants%26pg%3d1%26mch%3dmatchall%26rls%3dmbg%26StartsWith%3d%26sort%3dcNameSort%26PlantListType%3d%26ResWidth%3d1366%26ResHeight%3d768%26ResVer%3d26%26ResCoWidth%3d1366%26ResCoHeight%3d768%26ResCoVer%3d26>
- “Carnation.” Better Homes & Gardens. Accessed 10 March 2021. <https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/annual/carnation/>
- “Carnation.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 10 March 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5813/dianthus-caryophyllus/details>
