perennial

Cottage Pink

Dianthus plumarius 'Rose de Mai'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Dianthus plumarius is a mat-forming, evergreen perennial with linear, gray-green leaves, native to parts of Europe. It is valued for its abundant, fragrant flowers and is a classic choice for cottage and rock gardens. An heirloom cultivar prized for its intensely fragrant, double, soft lilac-pink flowers with deeply fringed petals. Its compact, mat-forming habit and glaucous blue-green foliage provide year-round interest.

Uses & Benefits:

Fragrant, showy flowers add charm to gardens and borders.

Drought tolerant once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping.

Attracts pollinators like 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 root in 4–6 weeks.
Plant in full sun to promote vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Water deeply but infrequently to prevent root rot, especially in summer.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer during growing season.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage new growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen formulas that promote excessive foliage
Refrain from planting in shaded areas where blooms may be sparse

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 border plant for cottage gardensSilver-foliaged groundcover in rock gardensContainer centerpiece with ornamental appeal

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Salvia Echinacea Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cottage Pink questions

What zones can Cottage Pink grow in?

Cottage Pink is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cottage Pink deer resistant?

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

When does Cottage Pink bloom?

Cottage Pink typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cottage Pink need full sun?

Cottage Pink does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Cottage Pink drought tolerant?

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