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Description
Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss, commonly known as Pinks, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but is widely cultivated in North America as an ornamental plant. It is a dwarf variety that grows up to 6-8 inches tall and spreads up to 10-12 inches wide. It produces a profusion of fragrant, double pink flowers with fringed edges that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are attractive to butterflies and bees and make great cut flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Dianthus |
Appearance
The Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss has a compact growth habit, forming a bushy mound of blue-green foliage. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, about 1-2 inches long. The flowers are the main attraction of this plant, measuring 1-2 inches in diameter. They are double, with layered petals that create a ruffled appearance. The color of the blooms is a soft, pastel pink that fades to white towards the center. The flowers are held on sturdy stems that rise above the foliage, making them highly visible. The plant blooms profusely in late spring and early summer, and deadheading the spent flowers encourages more blooms.
Care Guide
The Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep it healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water it regularly, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Apply it once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline soil with good drainage. If your soil is too acidic, add some lime to raise the pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. It can tolerate some cold, but in colder regions, it may benefit from a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss is relatively pest and disease-free, but it may occasionally suffer from the following:
- Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can distort the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water.
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in rocky or gravelly soils in meadows and on hillsides. In cultivation, it is often used in rock gardens, border plantings, and as a groundcover. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate some drought and cold, making it suitable for a range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers provided that the pot has good drainage and the soil is well-draining. Use a good quality potting mix, and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss?
A: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Apply it once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Can I divide the Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss?
A: Yes, the plant can be divided in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps, replanting them in a new location. Ensure that each division has roots and some foliage.
Q: How do I deadhead the Dianthus Plumarius Candy Floss?
A: Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers to encourage more blooms. To deadhead the plant, simply pinch off the faded flowers as soon as they start to wilt. This will encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
Related Plants
- Dianthus Barbatus
- Dianthus Caryophyllus
- Dianthus Gratianopolitanus
- Dianthus Plumarius
References
- “Dianthus Plumarius ‘Candy Floss’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278958&isprofile=0&basic=dianthus%20candy%20floss.
- “Dianthus Plumarius ‘Candy Floss’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/245761/Dianthus-plumarius-Candy-Floss-(PBR)/Details.
- “Dianthus Plumarius ‘Candy Floss’.” The Spruce. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/dianthus-plumarius-candy-floss-4141222.
