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Caryophyllaceae
Carnation
Dianthus caryophyllus
Love, fascination, distinction.
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Genus
- Dianthus
- Native to
- Mediterranean
- Bloom season
- Spring, Summer
- Type
- herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 30–75 cm
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil
- Well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline
- Water
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- 3–9
- Lifespan
- Short-lived perennial
Did you know
- Carnations have been cultivated for over 2,000 years; they were used in Greek and Roman ceremonial crowns.
- The scientific name Dianthus means 'flower of the gods.'
- Red carnations are the symbol of International Workers' Day (May 1st).
- A pink carnation was the first flower to be worn on Mother's Day in the U.S., chosen by Anna Jarvis in 1908.
- Carnations are one of the longest-lasting cut flowers, staying fresh for 2–3 weeks.