Description
Dianthus superbus
Herbaceous perennial which forms a low mat of grey leaves approx 30cm wide. These silvery mounds are topped by lilacy-pink flowers from mid-summer to autumn. The flowers are loosely tufted, giving them a shaggy or feathery appearance, and their clove-like fragrance is attractive to bees and butterflies as well as humans! The stems are well self-supporting, and they make good cut flowers. Dianthus actually means ‘flower of the gods’.
Dianthus species are common garden plants, but not many people know that the (young) leaves and fragrant flowers are edible, and perhaps fewer know that this particular species has traditionally been used in Chinese Medicine, where it is known as qúmài (瞿麦). The whole plant is used for its cooling, diuretic, and menstrual flow-promoting effects.
Note that Dianthus spp are considered mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Native to grasslands, hillsides and open woodlands across Northern Europe and Asia, it is best suited to well drained soils in partial shade in most of New Zealand, and will require some extra moisture in the hottest part of summer. Frost hardy. Avoid wet winter soils which may cause crown rot.
Height to 45cm when in flower, sometimes taller.
Certified Organic plant in 9cm pot.
Freight: We can send up to 9 plants this size (in 9cm pots) for the same freight price or they can be combined with other grades but this will incur higher freight costs.