Superb pink
Dianthus superbus · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant superb pink: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- June to September
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15°C
- Origin
- East Asia (China, Japan, Korea)
- Soil type
- Well-drained soil, slightly alkaline to neutral
Care
Light Exposure
Plant your superb pink in full sun, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily for generous blooming. Part shade is tolerated in very hot regions, but will reduce the number of flowers.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil slightly moist, without waterlogging. Once established, this plant tolerates drought well. Reduce watering in winter.
Soil
Prepare well-drained soil enriched with light organic matter. Avoid heavy, compacted soils. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage and prevents root rot.
Pruning and Cleanup
Pinch young plants to encourage bushier branching. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. In late winter, cut back dried stems to ground level.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer once or twice a month during flowering. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers; prefer low-nitrogen, potassium-rich feeding.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for powdery mildew in conditions of excessive moisture or high humidity. Rust may also appear; improve air circulation. Slugs threaten young plants: protect them in spring.
Did you know?
The superb pink has fascinated botanists for centuries with its delicately fringed petals and fragrant flowers. In Asia, this carnation has been valued since ancient times in floriculture; it notably features in Chinese ornamental gardens for its elegance and long vase life.
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.