These short-lived perennials or biennials are charming plants and are worth their weight in gold in the cottage border. After flowering, the attractive foliage holds the space well.

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Noteworthy CharacteristicsVarious cultivars produce colorful and disc-like blossoms, which are decoratively fringed and intensely fragrant. They are equally stunning as single colors, bicolors, or in a mixed palette.

CareGrow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun.

PropagationSow seed of biennials in summer; plants will bloom the following year.

ProblemsCrown rot, slugs, sow bugs, grasshoppers, chipmunks, squirrels, deer

• Genus : Dianthus
• Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
• Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
• Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
• Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers
• Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
• Light : Full Sun
• Maintenance : Low
• Moisture : Medium Moisture
• Growth Rate : Moderate
• Plant Type : Perennials
• Flower Color : Pink, White
• Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest