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Description
The Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks, commonly known as the black carnation, is a perennial plant that belongs to the carnation family Caryophyllaceae. It is a cultivar of the Dianthus Caryophyllus species and is known for its unique dark maroon to black color. The plant can grow up to 60 cm tall and blooms in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Dianthus |
Appearance
The Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks has dark maroon to black colored petals with a ruffled edge. The flowers are about 5 cm in diameter and have a spicy, clove-like fragrance. The plant has narrow, gray-green leaves that grow up to 12 cm long. It has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 60 cm tall.
Care Guide
The Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks requires moderate care and can be grown in containers or in the ground. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent diseases.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common problems:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can cause the plant’s roots to rot. Avoid overwatering and plant in well-draining soil to prevent this problem.
Habitat
The Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly grown in gardens and as a cut flower. It prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location. The plant can also be grown in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water the Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent diseases.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Q: What is the size of the Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks?
A: The plant can grow up to 60 cm tall and has flowers that are about 5 cm in diameter.
Q: Where is the Dianthus Caryophyllus King Of The Blacks native to?
A: The plant is native to the Mediterranean region.
Related Plants
- Dianthus barbatus (Sweet William)
- Dianthus chinensis (China Pinks)
- Dianthus gratianopolitanus (Cheddar Pinks)
- Dianthus plumarius (Cottage Pinks)
References
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (2021). Carnation. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/carnation/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Dianthus Caryophyllus. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c563
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Dianthus Caryophyllus King of the Blacks. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/249030/dianthus-caryophyllus-king-of-the-blacks/details
