Cheddar Pink

(Dianthus gratianopolitanus)

Cheddar Pink (Dianthus gratianopolitanus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Dianthus gratianopolitanus, commonly known as Cheddar pink or clove pink, is a herbaceous perennial native to the rocky and grassy slopes of the mountains in central and southern Europe. It is hardy to USDA zones 4–8 and typically grows to a height of 0.5-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters). The Cheddar pink forms a low-growing mat with narrow, blue-green leaves. From May to June, it produces a profusion of fragrant, rose pink flowers with fringed petals, which are highly attractive to pollinators and have a clove-like scent. The flowers are particularly showy and make this plant a favorite for rock gardens, borders, and as ground cover.

This plant is valued for its drought tolerance, long blooming period, and ease of maintenance. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, preferably alkaline to neutral in pH. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to crown rot, and it does not tolerate wet winter soil conditions. Cheddar pink is often used in rock gardens, as edging, or in alpine troughs. It is also suitable for xeriscaping due to its low water requirements. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to rust and should be monitored for signs of infection.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.8-1 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Rocky and grassy slopes of mountains in central and southern Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Clove Pink, Pfingst-Nelke, Oeillet Bleuâtre, Oeillet De La Pentecôte, Oeillet Bleu, Oeillet De Grenoble, Bergnejlika

Scientific Names: , Dianthus gratianopolitanus, Dianthus caesius, Dianthus moravicus, Dianthus pulchellus, Dianthus suavis, Dianthus flaccidus, Dianthus gratianopolitanus var. montanus, Dianthus caesius f. pulchellus, Dianthus caesius var. flaccidus

GBIF Accepted Name: Dianthus gratianopolitanus Vill.