This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: rich but well-drained, alkaline to neutral
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to August
• Hardiness: fully hardy, but protect from excessive winter wet
  
  One of the best new introductions, the strongly scented red flowers appear on strong stems over an extended period throughout the summer, making a colourful splash at the front of the border, alpine bed or patio pot. The flowers have an exquisite shape and are ideal for cutting.
  
  
• Garden care: Dianthus should be trimmed back lightly after flowering to promote new basal growth. Prune more closely in spring, as new shoots emerge to maintain a tidy shape.