Dianthus plumarius Ine

Dianthus 'Ine' is a modern carnation variety that is particularly suitable for pot cultivation. It bears white double flowers with a red centre. Its flowering starts in mid-summer, and is abundant and long-lasting. It is an excellent plant for sunny borders, where it forms persistent cushions of a beautiful grey-blue colour, even in winter. 

Dianthus 'Ine' belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is a cultivar selected in England, resulting from cross-breeding between D. plumarius and D. gratianopolitanus, among others. D. plumarius is a European perennial that is the main ancestor of various groups of carnations, both old-fashioned and modern. D. gratianopolitanus, originating from Europe and Asia, has passed on to its descendants its compact habit and its wonderful clove-like scent. The growth rate of this carnation is quite fast. Its adult size will not exceed 30cm (12in) in height with a similar spread. This carnation forms a dense clump. From June to August, it produces wide, double flowers measuring 4 to 5cm (2in) wide. They bear fringed petals. The flowers are carried at the end of short, often branched stems. Its linear, glabrous, pointed, persistent and leathery leaves are of a superb grey-blue colour.

Dianthus 'Ine' is a very pretty plant for patios and balconies. It is hardy to at least -15°C (5°F). This sun-loving plant is undemanding in terms of water. It will also thrive in well-drained border beds, banks, and rock gardens. Its beautiful fragrant flowers bring undeniable charm to even the most modest decor. For example, it can be placed in front of other carnations with white, red, or pink flowers ('Devon Dove', 'Devon Magic', 'Devon Cream', 'Letitia Wyatt'), or to accompany the blue bells of campanulas, the lavender blooms of catmints, or flowering cushions such as helianthemums, catchflies, wall bellflowers, Caucasus rock cresses, creeping phlox, Erigeron karvinskianus, and bloody cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum). A small border of these delightful carnations can be planted at the foot of peony clumps and old roses. This plant looks beautiful between the stones of a wall or pavement, in a trough or in a container.