Chinese pink
Dianthus chinensis · Caryophyllaceae
📷 Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around chinese pink and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Dianthus chinensis
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen to deciduous depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn (May to October)
- Mature size
- 20 to 40 cm in height, 25 to 30 cm spread
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, tolerates down to -5°C
- Growth rate
- Fast
Expert tips
The key tip
Arrosez régulièrement mais sans excès : le sol doit rester frais, jamais détrempé. Pincez les tiges en début de croissance pour forcer la ramification et multiplier les fleurs. Deadheadez systématiquement les fleurs fanées pour prolonger la floraison sur 2-3 mois.
The common mistake
La plupart des jardiniers noient l'œillet de Chine en l'arrosant trop souvent ; il préfère un sol bien drainé et tolère mieux la sécheresse que l'humidité stagnante.
The pro's trick
Semez les graines directement en place au printemps sans les couvrir (elles germent à la lumière) ; vous aurez des plantes plus robustes et économes que les plants achetés, et elles s'implanteront mieux.
Seasonal watch
En été très chaud et humide, surveillez l'oïdium blanc sur le feuillage et les fusarioses qui pourrissent le collet : espacez les arrosages, mouillez le sol et non les feuilles, et assurez une bonne circulation d'air.
Care
Light Exposure
Chinese pinks thrive in full sun, requiring a minimum of 6 hours of direct light daily for optimal flowering. A semi-shaded location can be tolerated in very hot regions, but will reduce the number of flowers. Avoid overly shaded areas where the plant would become weak and stunted.
Watering
Water regularly but moderately, keeping the soil moist without waterlogging it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. During the flowering period, increase watering slightly. Reduce watering in winter if you're overwintering the plant.
Soil
Choose well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline to neutral. A mixture containing potting soil, sand, or perlite ensures optimal drainage. Avoid overly compact or acidic soils that promote fungal diseases.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 15 days during the flowering season (May to October). Excessive nitrogen encourages foliage at the expense of flowers. A fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants is recommended.
Pruning and Deadheading
Pinch back young stems to encourage branching and a bushy form. Regularly remove faded flowers to extend the flowering period. In autumn or before overwintering, cut the plant back to 10-15 cm in height if it becomes too woody.
Diseases and Pests
Watch out for powdery mildew and gray mold in case of excessive humidity. Aphids may occasionally infest the stems. Good air circulation and watering at the base limit these problems. In case of infestation, isolate the plant and apply appropriate treatments.
Did you know?
Chinese pinks have been cultivated for over 2,000 years in Asia, where they symbolized talent in ancient civilizations. The scientific name "Dianthus" comes from the Greek "dios" (divine) and "anthos" (flower), meaning "divine flower"—a recognition of its beauty and historical importance in traditional Chinese and Persian gardens.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.