Contents
Description
Dianthus Rupicola, commonly known as rock pink, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family of Caryophyllaceae. This plant is native to mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, where it grows on rocky slopes and cliffs. The plant has a compact, cushion-like growth habit and produces small, fragrant flowers in shades of pink, red, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Dianthus |
Appearance
The Dianthus Rupicola plant has a compact growth habit, with a height of only 10-15 cm and a spread of up to 30 cm. The leaves are narrow, grayish-green in color, and grow in dense rosettes at the base of the plant. The flowers are small and fragrant, with five petals that are usually pink, red, or white in color. The plant blooms in early summer and continues to produce flowers until early fall.
Care Guide
Dianthus Rupicola is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Dianthus Rupicola is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dianthus Rupicola is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant. If you notice any signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or wilting, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Dianthus Rupicola is native to mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, where it grows on rocky slopes and cliffs. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is also commonly grown in rock gardens and as a border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dianthus Rupicola a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Dianthus Rupicola is a hardy plant that can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: How often should I water Dianthus Rupicola?
A: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Dianthus Rupicola be grown in a rock garden?
A: Yes, Dianthus Rupicola is a great plant for rock gardens as it prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate rocky terrain.
Q: What is the best time to plant Dianthus Rupicola?
A: The best time to plant Dianthus Rupicola is in the spring, after the last frost date in your area.
Related Plants
- Dianthus Chinensis
- Dianthus Barbatus
- Dianthus Gratianopolitanus
- Dianthus Caryophyllus
References
- “Dianthus rupicola.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b960.
- “Dianthus rupicola.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/24645/Dianthus-rupicola/Details.
- “Rock Pink (Dianthus rupicola).” Gardenia.net. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/dianthus-rupicola-rock-pink.
