About Dianthus deltoides L.
Common Name & Native Range
Dianthus deltoides, commonly called maiden pink, is a Dianthus species native to most of Europe and western Asia. It is also an introduced species present across many parts of North America.
Growth Form & Height
This herbaceous perennial plant grows up to 45 centimeters (18 inches) in height. It produces very narrow green or glaucous leaves that form a loosely tufted growth habit.
Flower Characteristics
Its flowers measure 15 to 20 millimeters across; they are most often pink, but may also be white, and are frequently marked with white spots. This species has an epicalyx of bracteoles: a cluster of specialized specialized leaves located at the base of the flower.
Calyx Structure
The calyx tube itself is not scarious — that is, not papery and membranous — at the joints between its lobes.
Habitat Preferences
Maiden pink most often grows in calcareous, or chalky, grassland, but it can also be found on rocky ground, and occasionally grows on old mine spoil.
Hybridization Behavior
When it is growing in its native range, it has been observed to hybridize with the introduced species Dianthus barbatus.
Horticultural Use & Cultivars
It is widely used in horticulture, and many cultivars (including 'Zing Rose') are sold as garden ornamental plants. These cultivars produce flowers in a range of pink shades, and sometimes have darker green foliage.
Horticultural Award
In the United Kingdom, Dianthus deltoides has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
