Carthusian Pink Dianthus carthusianorum
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as the Carthusian pink is recognized for its slender stems topped with clusters of vivid, eye-catching flowers. Its blossoms, a rich hue of pink, each consist of five petals that are typically fringed or bearded at the tips, giving them a distinctive, textured appearance. A closer look reveals a patterned array of darker and lighter shades, which can vary from plant to plant. These flowers form a protective, cup-like shape that encloses a set of smaller, darker pink or sometimes purplish rings near the center, attracting a range of pollinators. The foliage of the Carthusian pink is equally attractive and forms a tidy tuft of narrow, linear leaves with a grayish-green or blue-green color that provides a subtle background to its showy flowers. The leaves, which remain fairly modest in appearance, have a grass-like quality and can often appear slightly waxy or glaucous. Overall, the Carthusian pink's charm lies in its delicate floral display, perched atop slender stems that sway gently in the breeze, mingling to form a textured cloud of color that can add vibrancy to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Carthusian Pink, Clusterhead Pink, German Pink
Common names
Dianthus carthusianorum subsp. carthusianorum, Dianthus carthusianorum var. sanguineus, Dianthus sanguineus.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Carthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum) is not known to be toxic to humans. Typically, there are no adverse effects associated with touching or ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could cause mild irritation, but this is not common.
To pets
Carthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum) is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. There are no widespread reports of poisoning or toxic effects from pets ingesting this plant. However, ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the animal's digestive system reacting to an unusual substance.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Dianthus carthusianorum (Carthusian Pink) blooms with vibrant pink flowers that add color and visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Friendly: The plant is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, contributing to the health of the local ecosystem.
- Drought Tolerance: Carthusian Pink is recognized for its ability to withstand periods of dryness, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for busy gardeners or those looking for low-effort landscaping options.
- Cold Hardy: Able to survive in colder climates, Carthusian Pink is a robust choice for gardens in a range of geographical locations.
- Long Blooming Period: The flowering season extends through the summer months, ensuring a long period of visual interest in the garden.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is typically not favored by deer, which helps to reduce damage in gardens located in areas with deer populations.
- Border Planting: Due to its erect growth habit, Carthusian Pink is ideal for use in borders and bed plantings, contributing structure and height to garden designs.
- Rock Gardens: The plant's adaptability makes it a great addition to rock gardens, where it can thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight.
- Cottage Gardens: With its traditional charm, Carthusian Pink is a perfect fit for cottage garden settings, complementing other perennials and annuals.
Medical Properties- Diuretic effects: Dianthus carthusianorum has been used traditionally to promote the production of urine.
- Antipyretic properties: It has been employed in traditional medicine to help reduce fever.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some sources suggest that the plant may possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a dye plant: The flowers of Dianthus carthusianorum can yield a range of colors when used in natural dyeing processes.
- In perfumery: The scent of this plant is sometimes used to create fragrant perfumes and essential oils.
- As a culinary garnish: The bright petals can be used as an edible decoration for salads and desserts, adding a splash of color.
- In potpourri: Dried flowers can be used in potpourri mixes to add a pleasant fragrance to a room.
- As a companion plant: It can be planted alongside vegetables to attract pollinators and potentially repel certain pests.
- In floral art: The flowers are popular in floral arrangements and bouquets due to their vivid colors and durability.
- As a bookmark: Dried flowers can be used as natural and decorative bookmarks.
- In crafting: The blooms can be used in crafting, such as in making flower-pressed cards or decorations.
- For drying and pressing: The flowers are suitable for drying and pressing for use in craft projects or herbarium collections.
- In ornamental gardens: The plant is often used in rockeries, borders and as ground cover due to its low maintenance and attractive blooms.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Carthusian Pink is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Carthusian Pink is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Dianthus carthusianorum, commonly known as Clusterhead Pink, often symbolizes love and affection due to its beautiful and vibrant flowers.
- Boldness: The vivid hues of the Clusterhead Pink's blooms represent boldness and a daring spirit, reflecting its eye-catching presence in the wild.
- Pure Affection: Much like other flowers in the Dianthus family, Clusterhead Pink is associated with pure affection, conveying a sense of deep admiration and fondness.
- Divine Favor: In historical contexts, the Clusterhead Pink was sometimes seen as a symbol of divine favor, due to its association with gods and religious ceremonies.
WaterCarthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum) prefers well-drained soil and should not be overwatered. Water it once a week with about one gallon of water per plant, ensuring you increase the watering slightly during very hot or dry periods. During the winter or in cooler weather, reduce watering to once every two weeks unless it rains. Ensure the water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage deep root growth, but allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.
LightCarthusian Pink thrives in full sun, where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Place Carthusian Pink in a location where it will be exposed to unfiltered sun for the majority of the day for optimal flowering. These plants can tolerate partial shade, but blooming may be reduced.
TemperatureCarthusian Pink prefers moderate temperatures and thrives best in temperatures that hover between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate occasional dips below freezing but may suffer in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, avoid exposing Carthusian Pink to extreme heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods.
PruningPrune Carthusian Pink in early spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged stems from the previous season. Additionally, deadheading spent blooms throughout the flowering season can encourage more flowers. Pruning is typically done once a year, but deadheading can occur as needed during the bloom period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCarthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum) thrives best in a well-draining soil mix composed of loam or sandy loam with some organic matter, although it's quite adaptable to various soil types as long as there is good drainage. The ideal pH for Carthusian Pink is slightly alkaline, around pH 7.0 to 8.0. A soil mixture that allows for adequate air and water flow while retaining some moisture is beneficial for optimal growth.
RepottingCarthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum) doesn't require frequent repotting and can often be left undisturbed for several years. Repotting can be done every 2-3 years, to refresh the soil and divide the clumps if necessary. Ensure that the new container is only slightly larger than the previous one as they perform better when not over-potted.
Humidity & MistingCarthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum) is not particularly sensitive to humidity and can tolerate a wide range, but it generally prefers moderate ambient humidity. Excessive humidity can promote fungal diseases, so ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Carthusian Pink in bright light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Carthusian Pink needs full sun and well-draining ground.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleDianthus carthusianorum, commonly known as Carthusian Pink, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring under suitable temperature and soil moisture conditions. The seedlings develop into a rosette of narrow, grass-like leaves in the first growing season, focusing on establishing a strong root system. In its second year, the plant starts to produce flowering stems, reaching up to 60 cm tall, with multiple heads of vibrant pink to magenta flowers blooming from late spring to summer. After pollination, typically by bees and butterflies, the flowers produce small capsules containing numerous seeds that are dispersed by wind when the plant matures in late summer or autumn. Being a perennial species, Carthusian Pink enters a period of dormancy during the winter months, with its foliage dying back, and then it regrows from the rootstock the following spring. This cycle of flowering and seed production can continue for several years, with the plant also capable of spreading via basal offshoots.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The Carthusian pink, or Dianthus carthusianorum, is most commonly propagated from seeds. The ideal time to sow Carthusian pink seeds is in late spring or early summer, after the threat of frost has passed. To propagate, seeds should be lightly pressed into the soil as they need light for germination but not covered with soil. They should be kept moist and will generally germinate within 2 to 3 weeks at a temperature of around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings can then be thinned out or transplanted to their final positions spaced about 12 inches (30 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth.
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