Dianthus

Dianthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae, commonly known as carnations, pinks, or dianthuses. The genus comprises about 300 species of herbaceous perennials, annuals, and occasional short-lived subshrubs native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, with centers of diversity in the Mediterranean region.

Plants are characterized by opposite, narrow leaves and five-petaled flowers often with a fringed or notched margin. The flowers are typically arranged in dense clusters and often possess a spicy fragrance. The calyx is formed by tubular sepals with distinctive longitudinal ribs. Floral colors range from pinks and reds to whites and purples, and many cultivars are highly ornamental.

Notable species include Dianthus caryophyllus (carnation), Dianthus barbatus (sweet William), Dianthus deltoides (maiden pink), and Dianthus chinensis (China pink). The group includes numerous garden hybrids, commonly referred to as garden pinks, and interspecific hybrids such as Dianthus × allwoodii. They are popular ornamental plants for borders, rock gardens, and containers, and are frequently used in cut flower arrangements.

Cultivation is favored in full sun with well-drained, moderately fertile soils, often slightly alkaline. They dislike heavy, waterlogged conditions. In temperate regions they are grown as perennials or short-lived perennials, with some requiring cool winters to flower. Propagation is by seed, cuttings, or division; many garden varieties are short-lived and are renewed by cuttings or fresh seedlings.

Beyond ornament, some species are valued for fragrance or use as cut flowers. The name Dianthus derives from Greek dios (divine) and anthos (flower), meaning “divine flower.”