Species

Dianthus gratianopolitanusCheddar Pink

1 other cultivar

‘Firewitch’Cheddar Pinks Firewitch

perennial

Electra Cheddar Pink

Dianthus gratianopolitanus 'Electra'

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact, evergreen perennial with fragrant flowers.

Features fragrant, semi-double, magenta-red flowers with serrated, pink petal margins, blooming profusely in late spring to early summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Dianthus gratianopolitanus Electra offers vibrant pink blooms, fragrant foliage, and drought tolerance, making it ideal for sunny borders and rock gardens.

Its low-maintenance nature reduces gardener effort and water use.

Provides nectar for pollinators like butterflies and bees, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesDianthus gratianopolitanusCheddar Pink

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central and western Europe

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Water lightly but consistently to keep soil moist, not soggy.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 sets of true leaves, after 6 weeks.
Prune dead flowers to promote continuous blooming throughout summer.
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil to prevent root rot and ensure healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water moderately during dry periods 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Provide full sun for optimal flowering

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen in late season
Refrain from heavy pruning in winter
Never let soil stay waterlogged

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful rock garden borderFragrant edging along pathwaysSunny cottage garden feature

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Coreopsis EchinaceaThyme

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Electra Cheddar Pink questions

What zones can Electra Cheddar Pink grow in?

Electra Cheddar 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 Electra Cheddar Pink deer resistant?

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

When does Electra Cheddar Pink bloom?

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

Does Electra Cheddar Pink need full sun?

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

Is Electra Cheddar Pink drought tolerant?

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