The Story
Plant Bio
Dianthus x hybrida 'Cranberry Cocktail' is a low-growing perennial with finely cut, fragrant foliage and clusters of vibrant, ruffled flowers in shades of deep crimson and pink, blooming profusely in summer.
This cultivar is distinguished by its striking, multicolored petals that resemble a cranberry cocktail, adding a bold splash of color and fragrance to borders and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
9 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to medium
Humidity
Low to average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Mildly toxic to pets if ingested
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water moderately, allowing soil to dry between watering 🌱
- Deadhead to promote more blooms
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
- Neglect deadheading, reducing 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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus questions
What zones can Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus grow in?
Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus 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 Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus deer resistant?
Yes — Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus bloom?
Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus need full sun?
Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Dianthus to compare

Hardy Carnation
Dianthus caryophyllus 'Hardy Mixed'

Paint the Town Magenta Pinks
Dianthus x hybrida 'Paint the Town Magenta'

Maiden Pink
Dianthus deltoides

Cherry Vanilla Dianthus
Dianthus dianthus 'Cherry Vanilla'

Chinese Pink Rockin' Red Dianthus
Dianthus chinensis 'Rockin' Red'

Cheddar Pinks Firewitch
Dianthus gratianopolitanus 'Firewitch'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Cranberry Cocktail Dianthus with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.












