perennial

Frosty Fire Carnation

Dianthus caryophyllus 'Frosty Fire'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

11 inches

Width

11 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Herbaceous perennial, often short-lived, with glaucous, greyish-green to blue-green linear leaves and famously fragrant, often double flowers on tall stems. Native to the Mediterranean. Features intensely fragrant, double, deep velvety-red flowers with contrasting, finely serrated, crisp white edges (picotee). Forms a compact mound of glaucous, blue-green, grass-like foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

Dianthus caryophyllus Frosty Fire offers fragrant, showy blooms that enhance garden aesthetics and attract pollinators.

Its hardy nature reduces maintenance needs, making it ideal for low-effort gardening.

Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods to promote healthy roots.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pinch back spent flowers to encourage rebloom and bushier growth.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water at the base to avoid fungal diseases 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers regularly for continuous blooming
Provide full sun for optimal flowering

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Never neglect to prune after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant flower borderRock garden accentWildflower meadow feature

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Sedum Echinacea Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Frosty Fire Carnation questions

What zones can Frosty Fire Carnation grow in?

Frosty Fire Carnation is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Frosty Fire Carnation deer resistant?

Yes — Frosty Fire Carnation is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Frosty Fire Carnation bloom?

Frosty Fire Carnation typically blooms in late spring to mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Frosty Fire Carnation need full sun?

Frosty Fire Carnation does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Frosty Fire Carnation drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Frosty Fire Carnation handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.