SafePlants

Sand Pink (Dianthus arenarius)

The Sand Pink, scientifically known as Dianthus arenarius, is a delightful perennial herb appreciated for its fragrant, fringed flowers and compact growth habit. It is a popular choice for rock gardens and troughs.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has slender, grassy green foliage.
• It forms dense clumps.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family)
• Genus: Dianthus
• Synonyms:
  • Dianthus arenarius var. bohemicus Novk
  • Dianthus novakii Sojk
• Subspecies:
  • Dianthus arenarius arenarius
  • Dianthus arenarius borussicus
  • Dianthus arenarius gigas
  • Dianthus arenarius pseudoserotinus
  • Dianthus arenarius subsp. bohemicus
• The species was described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, and the name is considered validly published.

Common Names

• Sand Pink
• Pink
• Sand-Nelke (German)
• Œillet des sables (French)

Morphological Characteristics

• Growth Form: Perennial herb, densely tufted.
• Height: Typically grows to 10-20 cm (4-8 inches), but can reach 25-30cm. Some forms, like 'Little Maiden', stay around 4-6 inches tall.
• Foliage: Slender, grassy green or blue-green leaves forming dense clumps or cushions. May be evergreen.
• Flowers: Pure white, fragrant flowers with fringed edges, approximately 1 inch in diameter. They bloom in mid-spring to mid-summer (July-September).
• Habit: Forms low, dense, compact mounds or cushions.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

• Suitable for rockeries, screes, and xeric gardens.
• Prefers full sun and well-drained soils.
• Grows well from ground cover seeds.

Quirky Facts

• The cultivar 'Little Maiden' is a popular choice for rock gardens due to its dwarf size and abundant, fragrant flowers.

Further Information

• Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN), U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service.
• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) for information on Dianthus arenarius subsp. bohemicus.