Dianthus (pinks and Sweet William) offer frilled, clove-scented, edible flowers on tidy, hardy plants — perfect for the edge of a raised bed, where their sweet perfume can be enjoyed up close.
Quick facts
- Position: full sun
- Spacing: 20–25 cm apart
- Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth; good drainage
- Time to harvest: from planting, seasonally
When to plant: Plant in autumn or spring. Many dianthus are short-lived perennials or biennials that flower generously for a season or two. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.
Growing it in a raised bed: Plant into free-draining mix in full sun — they dislike wet feet, which a raised bed avoids. Deadhead to keep them blooming and compact.
How to use it: The petals are edible with a mild clove flavour (trim off the bitter white base) — lovely in desserts and drinks. The flowers are also great for bees and butterflies.
Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids, though flowers are seldom much bothered. See our safe pest guide.
Common problems: the main one to watch is rust, usually in damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow prevents most.
Where to plant it: A pretty, fragrant edging plant; grows well among other cottage flowers. See our companion planting guide.
More growing guides: cornflowers, pansies & violas and calendula.
Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.
Image: Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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