Dianthus Superbus Subsp. Alpestris
Contents
Description
Dianthus Superbus Subsp. Alpestris, commonly known as Alpine Pink, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians of Europe. This plant can grow up to 20 centimeters in height and 30 centimeters in width. It has narrow, green leaves that are arranged in pairs and erect stems that bear clusters of fragrant, pink flowers with fringed petals. Alpine Pink blooms from June to August and attracts bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Dianthus |
Appearance
Alpine Pink has narrow, green leaves that are arranged in pairs on erect stems. It bears clusters of fragrant, pink flowers with fringed petals. The flowers are about 2 centimeters in diameter and have a sweet, spicy scent. The plant can grow up to 20 centimeters in height and 30 centimeters in width. Alpine Pink blooms from June to August and attracts bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
To grow Alpine Pink, it is essential to provide the right conditions. Here are some tips for caring for Alpine Pink:
Water: Alpine Pink needs regular watering. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Fertilization: Alpine Pink does not require a lot of fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Alpine Pink prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
Sunlight: Alpine Pink prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as profusely.
Hardiness Zones: Alpine Pink is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alpine Pink is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to some diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Alpine Pink:
Aphids: Aphids can be a problem for Alpine Pink. They suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
Botrytis Blight: Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that can affect Alpine Pink. It causes the leaves and flowers to become water-soaked and turn brown. Remove infected plant parts and ensure adequate air circulation to prevent the disease from spreading.
Habitat
Alpine Pink is native to the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians of Europe. It grows in rocky, alpine meadows and on rocky slopes. Alpine Pink is well-suited to rock gardens, alpine gardens, and container gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Alpine Pink easy to grow?
A: Yes, Alpine Pink is relatively easy to grow. It prefers well-draining soil, regular watering, and full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Alpine Pink tolerate cold weather?
A: Yes, Alpine Pink is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8 and can tolerate cold weather.
Q: How often should I fertilize Alpine Pink?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Alpine Pink attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Alpine Pink attracts bees and butterflies with its fragrant, pink flowers.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Alpine Pink:
- Dianthus Allwoodii
- Dianthus Barbatus
- Dianthus Caryophyllus
- Dianthus Gratianopolitanus
- Dianthus Plumarius
References
- “Dianthus Superbus subsp. alpestris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org>.
- “Dianthus Superbus subsp. alpestris.” Plant Finder. Accessed 23 August 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net>.
- “Dianthus Superbus subsp. alpestris.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 23 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk>.
