Description
Dianthus deltoides | Maiden Pink ‘Arctic Fire’
Maiden Pink, also known as Cottage Pink, Meadow Pink, Garden Pinks, Splinks, or Lady’s Cushion, is an evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial that forms a lush, wide-spreading mat of green foliage forms a lush mat beneath masses of small, white flowers with a bright fuchsia ring around medium-pink eyes that bloom profusely. Each of the 5 flower petals have serrated edges, looking as if they have been trimmed with pinking shears (or ‘Pynken’) that tailors use to serrate or zigzag the edges of fabric, hence the common name ‘Pinks’.
All Dianthus varieties prefer good drainage. Overwatering or clay soil is the kiss of death for them. Most Dianthus species have silvery-blue foliage that resembles clumps of ornamental grass that is attractive even when the plant is not in bloom, ‘Arctic Fire’ is no different. Plants do exceptionally well in heat and drought conditions. Easy to grow and blooms from seed the first year. Will bloom more than once if dead-headed! May self-sow for more blooms the coming years. Suitable for rock gardens, along paths, as a ground cover, and along borders.
Sow outdoors during the colder months- September through February, or start indoors. Seeds germinate easily with heat, humidity, and light.
Attracts butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens.
Type: Perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun to part sun
Mature height: 6-8 inches
Mature width: 18-22 inches
Hardiness zones: 3-9
