Cheddar pink (Dianthus gratianopolitanus)

Also known as: Cheddar Pink, Clove Pink

Consider the Lantana (Lantana camara) for your garden. This low-growing perennial is both deer resistant and highly attractive to butterflies. Lantana thrives in part sun to full sun and can withstand high humidity as well as periods of drought. Its vibrant blooms make it a stunning addition to flowerbeds or container gardens, and it requires only moderate watering to flourish.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Cheddar pink

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue Gray Silver

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Pink Red White Purple

Images of Cheddar pink

Quickly Identify Cheddar pink

Low-growing perennial, max height 6 inches (15 cm).

Narrow, linear leaves with blue-green hue and waxy texture.

Vibrant pink flowers with fringed petals, exude clove-like scent.

Smooth leaves with subtle vein pattern, parallel veins.

Adaptable to well-drained soil, tolerates dry conditions, thrives in ample sunlight.

Scientific Classification of Cheddar pink

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Caryophyllales

Family

Pink

Genus

Dianthus

Species

Cheddar pink

Planting and Growing of Cheddar pink

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

55-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Cheddar pink?

Dianthus gratianopolitanus requires moderate watering. It's best to water the plant such that the soil is consistently moist but never waterlogged. Use about 250 ml of water per watering session to ensure proper hydration without drowning the roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cheddar pink? ›

What should I do if my Cheddar pink is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cheddar pink? ›

How to save an overwatered Cheddar pink? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cheddar pink?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Dianthus gratianopolitanus flourishes in full to partial sun, receiving 6 to 8 hours of light. This range ensures robust growth and prolific flowering, crucial for maintaining the plant’s ornamental value.

What is the ideal light intensity for Dianthus gratianopolitanus? ›

Where should Dianthus gratianopolitanus be placed to receive perfect light exposure? ›

How does optimal sunlight benefit Dianthus gratianopolitanus? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cheddar pink?

Ideal Temperature: 55 ~ 75℉

Dianthus gratianopolitanus thrives best in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F. This range allows the plant to maintain balanced metabolic activity, ensuring proper growth and blooming. Keeping the temperature within this range helps prevent stress that can lead to poor health or inadequate flowering.

What Soil is Best for Cheddar pink?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Dianthus gratianopolitanus thrives in a nutrient-rich medium where essential minerals are abundant. This kind of soil supports robust growth, allowing the plant to exhibit vibrant blossoms and foliage. It is crucial for the soil to have excellent drainage. Excess moisture can lead to root rot, so well-draining soil prevents waterlogging, helping the roots breathe and stay healthy. This plant prefers slightly alkaline conditions, which enhances nutrient uptake and helps achieve optimal flowering. Such pH conditions ensure healthy metabolic functions within the plant. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Cheddar pink?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When feeding Dianthus gratianopolitanus, use balanced fertilizers diluted to half the recommended label strength. This approach ensures the plant receives essential nutrients without overwhelming its root system. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Cheddar pink?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by cutting back any spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to prevent damage to the plant. Trim just above the nodes to stimulate healthy new growth. Remove any dead or diseased foliage to keep the plant vibrant and healthy. Deadheading is crucial: remove faded or dead flowers regularly to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage further flowering. Cut the stem down to the first set of healthy leaves, which directs the plant's energy into producing more buds instead of seed production. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cheddar pink plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer, Autumn

Start by sowing seeds in trays filled with light, well-draining soil. Cover them lightly with soil and mist gently. Place the trays in a bright, indirect light location and maintain a temperature of around 20°C (68°F) to promote germination.

Choose healthy, non-flowering shoots and cut just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development before placing in a sterile potting mix.

Division should be done when the plant is not actively growing. Carefully lift the plant from the ground and gently separate the roots into sections. Each section should have several buds and roots before replanting in desired locations.

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How to Repot Cheddar pink plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Dianthus gratianopolitanus exhibits several signals indicating it’s time for repotting. If you notice roots growing through the drainage holes or if the plant looks top-heavy and unstable, it is time to consider a new pot. Additionally, if the plant's growth appears stunted or the soil dries out rapidly, these are clear indicators that repotting is necessary.

Selecting the right pot for Dianthus gratianopolitanus is crucial. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Terracotta pots are ideal since they allow for better moisture evaporation. This ensures the roots have sufficient space to grow, while avoiding root rot.

Opt for a well-draining sandy soil mix to cater to the drainage needs of Dianthus gratianopolitanus. This type of soil prevents water accumulation around the roots, thus reducing the risk of root rot and other moisture-related issues. A mix with moderate nutrient levels supports healthy plant growth.

Toxicity of Cheddar pink

Is Cheddar pink toxic to humans?

The carnation, or *Dianthus*, possesses certain toxic characteristics when ingested or handled. The repercussions of contact with or consumption of the plant are relatively minor. Although the flowers are safe to touch, the leaves harbor toxic saponins that may irritate humans. Contact with the leaves can lead to dermatitis and skin irritation; ingestion can result in stomach discomfort and vomiting. These plants are commonly used as decorative species and are relatively easy for children to access, who may be particularly susceptible to the adverse effects if they touch or consume the foliage.

Is Cheddar pink toxic to cat?

Cheddar pink presents a low-level toxicity hazard for cats. If a cat consumes a substantial portion of the plant, especially any segment of it, there is a risk of poisoning. Pet owners should be alert to the possibility of symptoms that indicate physical distress if their cat interacts with or ingests cheddar pink. Although the exact toxic agents have not been specified, it is essential for pet owners to keep their cats away from the plant to prevent adverse effects. If a cat shows any signs of health issues following exposure to cheddar pink, seeking veterinary assistance promptly is vital to guarantee appropriate care and recovery.

Is Cheddar pink toxic to dog?

Cheddar pink presents a mild toxicity risk to dogs. Although the plant is not predominantly toxic, consuming it in significant amounts can result in poisoning. Every part of cheddar pink is deemed potentially harmful if ingested by a dog. Symptoms of toxicity may include gastrointestinal disturbances, such as vomiting or diarrhea, and in certain cases, more severe reactions may occur based on the quantity ingested and the individual dog's sensitivity. It is essential for dog owners to keep a watchful eye on their pets and to prevent them from consuming cheddar pink. Should a dog be suspected of having ingested any portion of cheddar pink, it is imperative to seek prompt veterinary attention to ensure adequate treatment and management of any symptoms.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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