Dianthus plumarius

Dianthus plumarius is a compact evergreen ground cover that is suitable for rock gardens, along paths, over slopes and rock walls. The blooms are spicy/clove-scented with ruffled and fringed petals in shades and combinations of pink, red and white. They bloom from May through August. 

The plants need sun and well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil.  Although not truly drought tolerant, they are tolerant of dry soil and prefer to dry between waterings. They do not tolerate wet, poorly drained soils, which can lead to disease. Deadheading plants can extend the flowering period and can best be done by shearing spent flowers after blooming. Division in spring is recommended every 2-3 years.

Problems:

Diseases: Wet, poorly drained soils make plants susceptible to crown rot and fungal rot.

Pests: Slugs, cutworms, aphids, caterpillars, thrips and red spider mites.