Carnation Dianthus 'Kristina' (pf)

👤 Non-toxic to humans
🐾 Non-toxic to pets
🌸 Blooming
🍪 Not edible
‍🌱 Easy-care
perpetual-flowering carnation 'Kristina'

ABOUT

The Dianthus 'Kristina' is a vibrant and beautiful flowering plant, commonly known as the Carnation or Pink. It features a lush cluster of slender leaves that provide a dense, tufted backdrop for the striking blooms. The foliage is typically a rich green hue, offering a vivid contrast against the flowers it supports. The blossoms themselves are renowned for their exquisite beauty and delightful fragrance. Each flower on the Dianthus 'Kristina' is composed of ruffled petals which can vary in color, often displaying shades of pink or sometimes a bicolored pattern with a distinct edge. At the center of the petals, you'll usually find a darker eye that adds an extra layer of depth to the flower's appearance. Furthermore, the petals are known to be intricately edged – sometimes appearing as if they have been delicately cut with pinking shears, adding to their ornamental charm. The flowers gather atop slender stems which sway gently above the foliage, creating an eye-catching display that can easily become the focal point of any garden setting. As a plant that is bred for its decorative appeal, the Dianthus 'Kristina' is often celebrated for its extended blooming period, which allows gardeners to enjoy its captivating beauty throughout the growing season. The aromatic nature of its flowers also makes it a popular choice for cutting gardens and for use in floral arrangements, where it lends both visual beauty and a pleasing fragrance.

Plant Info
Care
Common Problems

About this plant

  • memoNames

    • Family

      Caryophyllaceae

    • Synonyms

      Sweet William, Pinks

    • Common names

      Dianthus 'Kristina' (pf).

  • skullToxicity

    • To humans

      The common name for Dianthus 'Kristina' is Pinks. Pinks are generally not considered toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant typically does not result in poisoning, and no significant symptoms are expected to occur as a result of contact with or ingestion of Pinks.

    • To pets

      Pinks are generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. They are not known to cause poisoning if ingested by animals such as cats and dogs. Therefore, no specific symptoms of poisoning or significant consequences are expected if a pet were to ingest parts of the Pinks plant.

  • infoCharacteristics

    • Life cycle

      Perennials

    • Foliage type

      Evergreen

    • Color of leaves

      Blue-green

    • Flower color

      Pink

    • Height

      1 foot (30 cm)

    • Spread

      1 foot (30 cm)

    • Plant type

      Herb

    • Hardiness zones

      5

    • Native area

      Europe

Benefits

  • money-bagGeneral Benefits

    • Easy to Grow: Dianthus 'Kristina' is known for being a low-maintenance plant that thrives in a variety of conditions.
    • Attractive Flowers: It produces beautiful pink flowers that can add color and vibrancy to gardens and landscapes.
    • Long Blooming: This variety of Carnation has a long flowering period, providing visual interest throughout the growing season.
    • Drought Tolerant: Once established, Dianthus 'Kristina' can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for water-wise gardening.
    • Compact Size: With its compact growth habit, it is ideal for small gardens, borders, and container planting.
    • Fragrant: The flowers emit a pleasant scent, which can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
    • Attracts Pollinators: The blooming flowers can attract butterflies and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
    • Deer Resistant: It is generally resistant to deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.
    • Rapid Growth: Dianthus 'Kristina' has a quick growth rate, allowing gardeners to enjoy its benefits soon after planting.
    • Versatile: Suitable for a range of garden styles, from traditional cottage gardens to modern landscapes.

  • medicalMedical Properties

    This plant is not used for medical purposes.

  • windAir-purifying Qualities

    This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

  • leavesOther Uses

    • Carnation 'Kristina' can be used in potpourri. Its dried petals retain fragrance and add bursts of color to the mixture.
    • As a natural dye source, the deep pink to red hues of Carnation 'Kristina' petals can be used to tint fabrics or paper.
    • Carnation petals, including those of 'Kristina', can be crystallized with egg whites and sugar to decorate cakes and desserts.
    • In educational settings, Carnation 'Kristina' can be used for science experiments to demonstrate capillary action and how flowers absorb water, often changing the color of their petals.
    • Carnations are sometimes used in homemade cosmetics, where the petals of 'Kristina' could be infused into oils for their scent and potential skin-soothing properties.
    • As a craft material, the sturdy petals of Carnation 'Kristina' can be incorporated into handmade paper for texture and color.
    • The Carnation 'Kristina' can serve as a natural pest deterrent when planted among vegetables, as some pests dislike their fragrance.
    • Used in sensory gardens, the diverse textures and strong scent of Carnation 'Kristina' can provide a sensory experience for visitors.
    • Carnation 'Kristina' flowers can be used to make a floral-scented water or syrups for use in cocktails, giving a subtle taste and aroma.
    • The petals of Carnation 'Kristina' can be incorporated into aromatic sachets to freshen up drawers and closets.

Interesting Facts

  • bedFeng Shui

    The Carnation is not used in Feng Shui practice.

  • aquariusZodiac Sign Compitability

    The Carnation is not used in astrology practice.

  • spiralPlant Symbolism

    • Love: Dianthus flowers are commonly associated with love due to their long-lasting fragrance and beauty, making them a popular choice in love-related floral arrangements.
    • Admiration: The vibrant colors and textures of Dianthus 'Kristina' often symbolize deep admiration for someone, reflecting respect and high esteem.
    • Boldness: The striking appearance of the Dianthus 'Kristina' represents boldness and daring, encouraging individuals to take risks and be fearless.
    • Passion: As part of the Dianthus family, this variety also can signify deep passion, illustrating intense feelings and emotional connections.
    • Divine Favor: Historically, Dianthus flowers have been linked with the gods, and their name (derived from 'dios' - gods, and 'anthos' - flower) can be seen as a sign of divine favor or blessings.
    • Pure Affection: The gentle yet enduring nature of the flower can be a symbol for pure and platonic affection, often given to convey deep-felt, genuine care.

💧
Every 1-2 weeks
Water
☀️
2500 - 10000 Lux
Light
💦️
5%
Humidity
🪴
Every 1-2 years
Repotting
🌱️
Spring to Summer
Propogation
✂️️
As needed
Pruning

  • water dropWater

    Pinks, commonly known as Dianthus 'Kristina', prefer to be watered once the soil surface feels dry to the touch, which is usually about once a week. It’s essential to water them deeply so that the water reaches the roots, requiring approximately one to two gallons for outdoor plants, depending on the size of the plant and environmental conditions. During hot, dry spells, watering frequency may increase. It’s important to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of foliage diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure adequate drainage in the pot or garden bed.

  • sunLight

    Pinks or Dianthus 'Kristina' thrive in full sun, which means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for them is in a south-facing location where they get ample light. Adequate sunlight is crucial for vibrant blooms and healthy growth, so a spot without shade or shadow during the peak hours is ideal.

  • thermometerTemperature

    Pinks, also known as Dianthus 'Kristina', prefer a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 40 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive light frosts but may suffer if temperatures fall below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for promoting growth and flowering is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • scissorsPruning

    Pinks, also known as Dianthus 'Kristina', should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage reblooming throughout the growing season. Pruning also helps to maintain the plant's shape and promote denser growth. The best time to prune is after a flush of blooms begins to fade. Deadheading, or cutting off the old flower heads, can be done every few weeks during the blooming period.

  • broomCleaning

    As needed

  • bambooSoil

    Carnations, commonly what Dianthus 'Kristina' is known as, prefer well-drained, slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.7 to 6.9. A mixture of loam, compost, and coarse sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Regular applications of organic matter can help maintain the soil conditions favorable for Carnations.

  • plantRepotting

    Carnations should be repotted every 1-2 years to ensure they have enough space to grow. This also allows for the refreshment of the soil which can become compacted and nutrient-depleted over time. Spring is the best time to repot Carnations to minimize stress on the plants.

  • water dropsHumidity & Misting

    Carnations prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable to average household humidity. They do not require high humidity as some tropical plants do; therefore, a standard indoor environment is usually sufficient for their growth. Avoid placing them in excessively dry areas.

  • pinSuitable locations

    • Indoor

      Place Carnations in well-drained soil, by a sunny window.

    • Outdoor

      Plant Carnations in full sun, enriching the soil with compost.

    • Hardiness zone

      3-9 USDA

  • circleLife cycle

    Dianthus 'Kristina', commonly known as a cultivar of Pinks or Sweet William, begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and provided with enough sunlight and moisture, will germinate and sprout. Following germination, the plant enters a vegetative growth phase, developing sturdy stems and blue-green foliage. It then advances into the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, producing vibrant pink-to-red fragrant flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, flowers will produce seeds, which if conditions allow, can be dispersed to grow new plants, thereby continuing the propagation of the species. As a perennial, Dianthus 'Kristina' may undergo a period of dormancy during colder months, depending on the climate, only to rejuvenate and bloom again in the following growing season. Properly cared for, it can live and flourish for several years, following the same annual cycle of growth, blooming, and dormancy.

  • sproutPropogation

    • Propogation time

      Spring to Summer

    • Propogation: The Dianthus 'Kristina', commonly known as Pinks, is most popularly propagated through the division of its clumps. This method is best carried out in the early spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant from the ground, ensuring that you preserve as much of the root system as possible. Gently separate the clump into smaller sections, each with a portion of roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately, maintaining the original planting depth, and water them thoroughly to help establish the new plants. Division helps to rejuvenate older plants that may have become woody or less vigorous, encouraging fresh growth and blooming.

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