Dianthus plumarius aka Clove Pink

Dianthus plumarius is known as cottage pink or feathered pink. This evergreen perennial comes from central and southern Europe. NC State places its origin in the eastern Alps and northwestern Balkans. It forms low, dense mats that spread across the ground. Garden plants reach about 0.5–2 feet [0.15–0.6 metres] tall. Their spread can reach 2 feet [0.6 metres]. RHS gives a smaller upper size of 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach full size.

The narrow leaves look like soft blades of grass. Their colour ranges from grey-green to blue-green. They grow in opposite pairs and have smooth edges. The leaves have no stalks and clasp the stems. Green, hairless stems stand upright and branch near their tops. The foliage stays through winter, giving beds a lasting low cover.

Flowers open from May to August in NC State's account. Upright stems hold small groups of three to five blooms. The petals have deep cuts that form a fringed edge. Colours include red, pink and white, sometimes within one flower. Their strong scent recalls cloves. Bees, butterflies and hummingbirds visit the blooms. Small capsules follow the flowers and split when ripe. Each capsule holds only a few seeds.

Grow cottage pink in full sun with soil that drains well. It suits neutral to alkaline ground. It can grow in sand, loam or clay with good drainage. RHS recommends compost or rotted manure and spring feeding. Let the soil dry between waterings, rather than keeping it wet. RHS calls it drought resistant; NC State gives a more cautious view. Both support its use in dry, well-drained sites. NC State lists USDA zones 3–9; RHS rates it H7. Remove spent blooms to extend the flowering season. Spring division every two to three years helps maintain plants.

Use it along paths, on slopes, or among rocks. It also suits pots, wall edges and cut-flower beds. Deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone. Wet ground can lead to crown rot and fungal decay. Other risks include mildew, rust, viruses and fusarium wilt. Slugs, aphids, cutworms, caterpillars, thrips and spider mites may attack. The petals have food uses in syrups, sauces and flavoured vinegar. This does not make the whole plant safe to eat. NC State reports mild poisoning, including vomiting, from ingestion. Both people and pets may develop skin reactions after contact. Wear gloves when handling plants.