Carnation (Dianthus anticarius)
Care, watering, light and tips for Carnation on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Caryophyllaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Carnation
Dianthus anticarius, commonly known as Andalusian Pink, is a charming small perennial plant endemic to Andalusia, Spain. It is characterized by its delicate pale pink to white flowers, often with a darker eye, and its compact, greyish-green foliage. It is ideal for rock gardens, garden borders, or pots, adding a wild and romantic touch.
Native range
Andalusia, Spain
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for optimal flowering, although it tolerates some partial shade. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, as it is susceptible to waterlogging. It prefers well-drained soils, even poor or calcareous ones. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; ensuring good drainage is essential.
How to save a dying Carnation
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing or brown leaves, soft stems, no flowering.
- First aid
- Check watering, prune damaged parts, repot if drainage is poor.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or lack of sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly and correct growing conditions.