Dianthus 'Pink Fire' is an eye catching perennial with intensely pink frilled flowers atop silvery blue evergreen foliage adding fine texture and interest even when not in bloom.
Height & Spread: 8 - 10 in x 10 - 14 in
Bloom Time: Late spring, rebloom into summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; avoid wet soils
Deer Resistance: High
NATIVE STATUS
Cultivated hybrid derived from European Dianthus species. While not native, it behaves well in the landscape and provides reliable support for early and mid season pollinators without becoming invasive.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
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Visited by small bees and honeybees that seek out its early season nectar and pollen.
Butterflies
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Attracts butterflies and skippers looking for bright easily accessible nectar sources in full sun.
Moths
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Its sweet spicy fragrance may draw in night flying moths, particularly in more open garden settings.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
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Plant 10 - 14 in apart to form low, colorful clusters and prevent overcrowding in well-drained soils.
Landscape Placement
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Ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, containers, or as a colorful edging plant. Its neat habit and vibrant blooms make it well suited to small spaces and raised beds.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Aurinia saxatilis (Basket of Gold) - Shares sun loving, dry site tolerance and provides contrasting yellow blooms.
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Hesperaloe parviflora (Red Yucca) - Adds bold, architectural contrast with similar drought tolerance.
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Allium 'Millenium' (Ornamental Onion) - Offers midsummer blooms and pollinator support with strong structural form.
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Lavandula stoechas (Spanish Lavender) - Complements with aromatic purple blooms and similar cultural needs.
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Phlox subulata (Creeping Phlox) - Spreads along the ground and fills in around the base for multi season interest.