Carnation Dianthus 'Whitesmith' (b)
ABOUT
Dianthus 'Whitesmith', commonly known as carnation or pinks, is a flowering plant recognized for its striking appearance. This plant typically boasts a dense cluster of waxy, blue-green foliage that forms a lush, cushion-like mound. The leaves are slender and may have a glaucous appearance giving the foliage a frosted look. The carnation's distinguishing feature is its beautiful flowers, which are usually a brilliant white. Flowers are often described as having a frilly or ruffled edge, with each petal looking as if it has been delicately cut with pinking shears. The blossoms usually emit a spicy, clove-like fragrance which is highly valued in garden settings and as cut flowers in bouquets. The overall impression of the Dianthus 'Whitesmith' is one of quaint charm and vibrant freshness, presenting a classic aesthetic that is cherished by garden enthusiasts for its elegant simplicity and alluring scent.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Synonyms
Carnation, Clove Pink, Pinks
Common names
Dianthus 'Whitesmith'.
- Toxicity
To humans
The plant commonly known as Carnation, specifically the Dianthus 'Whitesmith' variety, is not generally considered poisonous to humans. However, it should be noted that consuming any non-food plant material can potentially cause discomfort or an adverse reaction in sensitive individuals, such as stomach upset or dermatitis upon skin contact. It is always advisable to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to their potential for toxicity or irritation.
To pets
Carnations, including the Dianthus 'Whitesmith' variety, can be mildly toxic to pets if ingested. The toxicity is typically mild and may result in gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. While the toxicity is generally low, it is still recommended to prevent pets from eating this plant to avoid any potential discomfort or health issues. If you suspect your pet has ingested a substantial amount of the plant and is showing symptoms, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Blue-green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Dianthus 'Whitesmith', commonly known as Carnation, adds a bright splash of color to gardens with its striking white flowers.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: Carnations are known for their long-lasting flowers, which can provide visual interest throughout the blooming season.
- Fragrance: The flowers emit a sweet and spicy scent that can be a delightful addition to any garden or bouquet.
- Attracts Pollinators: Carnations can attract a variety of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are vital for the ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Carnations are relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care aside from occasional watering and deadheading.
- Drought Tolerant: Carnations are relatively drought-tolerant, making them suitable for gardens in drier climates or for gardeners seeking water-efficient plants.
- Edible Flowers: The petals of Carnations are edible and can be used for culinary purposes, such as decorating cakes or flavoring drinks.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Carnations can be planted in flower beds, borders, containers, or used as cut flowers, offering versatility in landscaping and floral design.
- Compact Size: The compact growth habit of Carnations makes them suitable for small gardens or spaces where plant size must be controlled.
- Cold Hardy: Carnations are quite cold hardy and can survive in cooler temperatures, making them suitable for a variety of climates.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Edible decoration: Carnation petals are edible and can be used to add color and a slight clove-like flavor to salads, desserts, or drinks.
- Bookmark embellishments: Dried carnation flowers can be laminated or placed between the pages of a book, serving as a natural and fragrant bookmark.
- Arts and crafts: The vibrant petals of carnations can be used in art projects, like making homemade paper or adding a splash of color to collages.
- Colorful ice cubes: Freeze carnation petals in ice cube trays to create decorative and colorful ice cubes for punch bowls or cocktails.
- Potpourri ingredient: Dried carnation petals are often incorporated into potpourri mixes for their fragrance and beauty.
- Fragrance sachets: Dry the petals and sew them into small sachets to naturally scent drawers and closets.
- Natural fabric dye: The brightly colored petals can be boiled to extract dye for fabrics or Easter eggs.
- Floral-infused syrups: Carnation petals can be simmered in sugar water to create floral-infused syrups for flavoring beverages or drizzling over desserts.
- Cooking spice: In some cultures, carnation petals are used as a spice in cooking and can be found in certain spice blends for their unique taste.
- Plant dye for crafts: The petals of the carnation can be used to make a non-toxic dye for children's crafts, like coloring homemade playdough or slime.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Carnation is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Carnation is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Love: Dianthus, known commonly as Carnation, often symbolizes love and fascination. The timeless allure of these flowers has made them a staple in expressions of romantic interest and deep affection.
- Distinction: Carnations carry the meaning of pride and beauty, representative of someone standing out due to unique qualities. 'Whitesmith' with its pure white petals can underscore this idea.
- Purity: White flowers, in general, are associated with purity and innocence. The 'Whitesmith' carnation's white color is often chosen for events that aim to reflect these themes, such as weddings or christenings.
- Good Luck: In some cultures, carnations are gifted as tokens of good luck. Presenting someone with a bloom can be a way to wish them success and positive outcomes in their endeavors.
- Grief and Mourning: While certain shades of carnations are associated with joy and love, white carnations, in particular, can also signify remembrance, making them appropriate for funerals or to honor a lost loved one.
- Water
Carnations should be watered deeply and thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. They typically need to be watered once or twice a week, but this can vary depending on climate conditions such as heat and humidity; in hotter periods, they may require more frequent watering. Aim to provide carnations with approximately one inch of water per week, which translates to about 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil. It's important to water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent diseases. During the cooler months, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent over-saturation of the soil.
- Light
Carnations thrive in full sunlight for at least six hours a day. They perform best when placed in a spot that receives morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon. However, carnations can also tolerate full sun throughout the day, provided they are adequately watered to prevent the soil from drying out too quickly.
- Temperature
Carnations prefer a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit but are susceptible to damage if subjected to prolonged frost. During the summer months, carnations can handle temperatures up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but it's crucial to ensure adequate watering during these warmer periods to maintain healthy growth.
- Pruning
Carnations should be pruned to promote bushy growth, remove spent flowers, and maintain their shape. Pruning should be done after the blooming period, typically in the late summer or early fall. Deadhead flowers regularly throughout the blooming season to encourage further blooming. Cut back the stems by one-third to one-half after flowering to help rejuvenate the plant for the next season.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Carnation 'Whitesmith' thrives best in well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix containing one part garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part sand or perlite creates an ideal environment for healthy root growth and flower development.
- Repotting
Carnations like 'Whitesmith' typically require repotting every 1-2 years or when they outgrow their current container, ensuring they have enough space for root expansion and nutrient absorption.
- Humidity & Misting
Carnation 'Whitesmith' prefers moderate humidity levels and does not require high humidity; average room humidity is generally sufficient for its growth.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and cool temperatures for Carnation 'Whitesmith'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and provide some afternoon shade if too hot.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The life cycle of the Dianthus 'Whitesmith', commonly known as Carnation 'Whitesmith', begins with seed germination, typically in late winter to spring when soil temperatures allow. Following germination, seedlings establish themselves with true leaves, growing into vegetative plants with lush foliage. As the climate warms and daylight hours increase, the plants enter the flowering stage, producing fragrant white blooms often in late spring to early summer. After pollination, which can be facilitated by insects or wind, the plants set seed contained in capsules for the next generation. With the onset of cooler temperatures or at the end of the growing season, Carnation 'Whitesmith' plants may die back, especially if grown as annuals, or they may persist and prepare to overwinter if they are grown as perennials. Overwintered plants will resume growth the following spring, starting the cycle anew.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-early summer
Dianthus 'Whitesmith', commonly known as Carnation, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. To effectively propagate Carnations, take cuttings in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose healthy, non-flowering stems for the best results. Cut a stem 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) long just below a node, where the plant’s natural hormones are most concentrated. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting should then be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not saturated. Covering the cutting with a plastic bag can help maintain humidity, but ensure there is some ventilation to prevent rot. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new Carnation plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions and eventually planted out in the garden.