Dianthus chinensisChina pink
科:石竹科
Family:Caryophyllaceae
属:石竹属
common name:China pink
introduce:Plant Type: Annual
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Missouri Native: No
Native Range: China
Height: 0.5 to 1 foot
Spread: 0.5 to 1 foot
Bloom Time: April - June
Bloom Color: White, pink, red and bicolor
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Dry to medium moisture
Maintenance: Medium
General Culture:
China pinks are biennials or short-lived perennials that are primarily grown as annuals in the St. Louis area. They are sometime described as cool weather annuals because they thrive in cool summers, but dislike the hot and humid summers typical of the St. Louis climate. They are best grown in average, dry to medium wet, well-drained soils in full sun, but appreciate some afternoon shade in hot summer weather. Start seed indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date. Set out seedlings and purchased plants 1-2 weeks before last frost date. Plantings may burn out in hot St. Louis summers or may melt out in the center when soils are not well-drained. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong bloom. When flowering declines, plants may be sheared to promote additional bloom.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
China pinks are biennials or short-lived perennials that are primarily grown as annuals in the St. Louis area. They are sometime described as cool weather annuals because they thrive in cool summers, but dislike the hot and humid summers typical of the St. Louis climate. They are best grown in average, dry to medium wet, well-drained soils in full sun, but appreciate some afternoon shade in hot summer weather. Start seed indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date. Set out seedlings and purchased plants 1-2 weeks before last frost date. Plantings may burn out in hot St. Louis summers or may melt out in the center when soils are not well-drained. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong bloom. When flowering declines, plants may be sheared to promote additional bloom.
Problems:
Susceptible to crown rot and rust, particularly in poorly-drained soils. Watch for snails and slugs. These are high maintenance plants that need regular shearing to force additional bloom.
Uses:
Beds and borders. Edgings. Containers.
