<p>{Family: Caryophyllaceae} Dianthus are old-fashioned perennials with fragrant flowers that smell like cloves. They have fringed petals, and the flowers are borne singly or in clusters above very attractive grassy, dark green and glossy foliage. In milder climates, they may be evergreen. Alpine pinks are more dwarf in stature and form small mounding clumps with plentiful pink, white and reddish flowers.</p><p>Clumps should be put into the ground about 12 to 18 inches apart, and they will grow together in low mounds. They are very low-maintenance, hardy and easy to grow. Dianthus like full sun, or a bit of shade, and the soil should be well drained as for other alpines. They flower from spring through late summer. Cut the flowers back when they have finished blooming, and the clumps can be sheared to keep them low and small if desired. Divide them every 2 or 3 years, or they will slowly produce less flowers. Propagate from seed, cuttings in early summer, layering, or by division.</p><p>Dianthus has a long and very interesting history and much can be found out about it in our garden lore, more than we can touch on here. They have been beloved garden plants since the 16th century, maybe longer, and they have been prized by almost every style of gardener. They are thought to have originated in Europe and temperate parts of Asia, and made their way west in early medieval times. They have been hybridized into many flower shapes and colours. The common name 'Pink' is thought to refer to the cut, ruffled or crimped edges of the petals. Species and cultivars are often collected by gardeners, like roses. I strongly urge any reader interested in their history to consult any of the references and old garden books, it is a fascinating insight into gardening history in general.</p>
