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Description
Dianthus Longicalyx, also known as Long Calyx Pink, is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Asia, particularly China and Tibet, and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its showy flowers. The plant has a clump-forming habit and produces upright stems that can grow up to 30cm in height. Its flowers are usually pink or white in color, with a diameter of around 2cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————-|—————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Angiosperms|| Class| Dicotyledons|| Order| Caryophyllales|| Family| Caryophyllaceae|| Genus| Dianthus|| Species| D. longicalyx |
Appearance
Dianthus Longicalyx has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and grow up to 5cm in length. The stems are typically green or reddish-brown and have fine hairs. The flowers are borne in compact clusters at the top of the stems and have a distinctive long calyx that extends beyond the petals. The petals themselves are deeply notched, giving them a fringed appearance. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and attract butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Dianthus Longicalyx is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline and can tolerate dry conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer.- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Dianthus Longicalyx is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dianthus Longicalyx is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Other pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips can occasionally infest the plant, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dianthus Longicalyx is native to the grasslands and rocky slopes of China and Tibet. It prefers dry, well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures. The plant is commonly grown as an ornamental in gardens and is popular for its showy flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dianthus Longicalyx be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.Q: How often should I fertilize Dianthus Longicalyx?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer.Q: What is the ideal pH for growing Dianthus Longicalyx?
A: This plant prefers soil that is slightly alkaline, with a pH of around 7.0-7.5.Q: Is Dianthus Longicalyx deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally considered deer-resistant.
Related Plants
– Dianthus Barbatus (Sweet William)- Dianthus Caryophyllus (Carnation)- Dianthus Gratianopolitanus (Cheddar Pink)- Dianthus Plumarius (Pinks)- Dianthus Superbus (Fringed Pink)
References
– “Dianthus Longicalyx.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 8 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282917&isprofile=0&basic=Dianthus%20longicalyx.- “Dianthus Longicalyx.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 8 June 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/204334/Dianthus-longicalyx/Details.
