Dianthus Black Cherry Frost (Pink)

Perfect for small spaces, Dianthus 'Black Cherry Frost' (Pink) is a charming evergreen perennial with masses of sweetly scented, semi-double, velvety, rich red flowers, 1.25 in. (3 cm), adorned with serrated, near white edges. Blooming in early summer and early fall, the eye-catching blossoms rise on strong stems above a tight, compact mound of grassy, silvery blue leaves. Easy to grow, and heat and humidity tolerant, this garden pink is perfect for adding a splash of color in the garden. It is an excellent addition to the front of sunny borders, rock gardens, or decorative containers. Dianthus 'Black Cherry Frost' belongs to the Fruit Punch series.

• Grows up to 8-10 in. tall (20-30 cm) and 12-14 in. wide (30-35 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in loose, neutral to slightly alkaline, well-drained soils. Drought and salt tolerant. However, the foliage will not be as lush and fewer flowers will be produced if this dianthus is grown in hot, dry areas. Regular watering during prolonged dry spells will be necessary.
• Extremely versatile, this Dianthus is ideal for beds and borders, garden edging, rock gardens, cottage gardens, or containers.
• Attracts bees and butterflies, but is ignored by deer.
• Shearing after flowering will encourage this dianthus to rebloom in early fall.
• Do a thorough clean-up in the fall to prevent pest and disease issues, and add a layer of mulch to protect the evergreen foliage. As soon as the weather begins to warm up, remove all of this mulch to prevent crown rot.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.