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Description
Dianthus Pink Ruffles, also known as Dianthus gratianopolitanus, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Europe, particularly in France and Italy. This plant produces fragrant, vivid pink flowers that have ruffled edges and are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and may re-bloom in fall. Dianthus Pink Ruffles is an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Dianthus |
Appearance
Dianthus Pink Ruffles has a compact, mounded growth habit and grows up to 8-12 inches tall and 10-12 inches wide. The leaves are narrow and blue-green in color, and they grow up to 3 inches long. The flowers of Dianthus Pink Ruffles are the main attraction. They have a bright pink color with ruffled edges and grow up to 1 inch in diameter. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that can attract butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Water: Dianthus Pink Ruffles prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization: Fertilize Dianthus Pink Ruffles with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid fertilizing the plant during hot weather or drought.
Soil: Dianthus Pink Ruffles prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Dianthus Pink Ruffles prefers full sun to light shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and bloom well.
Hardiness Zones: Dianthus Pink Ruffles is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dianthus Pink Ruffles is generally disease and pest resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and improving air circulation around the plant. Dianthus Pink Ruffles can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dianthus Pink Ruffles is native to Europe and grows in rocky, well-draining soil. It prefers full sun to light shade and can tolerate drought conditions. This plant can be found growing in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dianthus Pink Ruffles be grown indoors?
A: No, Dianthus Pink Ruffles is an outdoor plant that requires full sun to grow and bloom well.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dianthus Pink Ruffles?
A: Fertilize Dianthus Pink Ruffles with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid fertilizing the plant during hot weather or drought.
Q: How often should I water Dianthus Pink Ruffles?
A: Water Dianthus Pink Ruffles deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can cause fungal diseases.
Q: Can Dianthus Pink Ruffles tolerate cold weather?
A: Yes, Dianthus Pink Ruffles is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold weather.
Related Plants
- Dianthus Firewitch
- Dianthus Bath’s Pink
- Dianthus Frosty Fire
- Dianthus Neon Star
- Dianthus Sweetness
References
- “Dianthus gratianopolitanus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c747
- “Dianthus.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/dianthus-plant-profile-4847073
- “Dianthus Pink Ruffles.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/dianthus-gratianopolitanus-pink-ruffles
