Creeping pink (Dianthus repens)
Care, watering, light and tips for Creeping pink on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Caryophyllaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Creeping pink
Dianthus repens, commonly known as creeping pink or oeillet rampant, is a charming low-growing perennial that forms dense, spreading mats. Its slender stems are covered with small, grayish or bluish-green leaves and, in spring and summer, abundant five-petaled flowers, often bright pink, purple, or white, which emit a delicate fragrance. It is ideal for rock gardens, borders, ground cover, or for elegantly spilling from pots and hanging baskets, adding color and texture.
Native range
Siberia and Alaska
Care tips
It prefers full sun for optimal flowering and well-drained, sandy, or slightly calcareous soil. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, as it is sensitive to waterlogging. A common mistake is overwatering or heavy soil, which can lead to root rot; ensure excellent drainage. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage a longer and more vigorous blooming period.
How to save a dying Creeping pink
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting leaves, soft stems, lack of blooms.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Ensure good ventilation and bright indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering leading to root rot or insufficient light. Does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted. Act quickly to adjust watering and light.