Woodland pink
Dianthus sylvestris · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant woodland pink: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, fine and grey-green
- Flowering
- June to August, bright pink to red flowers
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall, 30 to 40 cm spread
- Growth
- Moderate, rapid in first year
- Hardiness
- Excellent, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe, mountainous regions
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky, poor to moderate
Care
Exposure
Plant in full sun for at least 6 hours per day to promote abundant flowering and compact growth. Partial shade is tolerated but reduces flower production. Avoid areas that are too damp or permanently shaded.
Watering
Water moderately at planting time and during prolonged dry spells. Once established, this carnation tolerates drought well thanks to its deep root system. Let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Soil and drainage
Choose well-drained, chalky or neutral soil, poor to moderate. Improve with gravel or sand if your soil is heavy or clayey. Drainage is crucial: this carnation hates waterlogging, especially in winter.
Pruning and pinching
Pinch out young plants in spring to encourage branching and a denser shape. Remove faded flowers regularly to extend flowering. In late autumn, lightly tidy the base without cutting it back hard.
Fertiliser
Apply balanced or light fertiliser in spring. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Poor soil is usually sufficient; rock carnation thrives without being over-fed.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally robust. Watch out for rust or powdery mildew in damp conditions: improve air circulation and avoid watering the foliage. Aphids may occasionally appear but rarely cause serious damage.
Did you know?
The rock carnation is the wild ancestor of many cultivated carnations: in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, European botanists were already selecting it to obtain varieties with larger and more colourful flowers. Its Latin name 'sylvestris' literally means 'of the forests', though it actually grows in mountains, on rocks and dry slopes.
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.