Dianthus 'Pretty Poppers Kiss and Tell'

Dianthus 'Pretty Poppers Kiss and Tell': Whispers of White with a Rosy Secret

Softly romantic with a hint of boldness, Dianthus 'Pretty Poppers™ Kiss and Tell' charms the garden with its fully double, crisp white blooms kissed by a vivid rose-pink centre. Each finely fringed petal carries a sweet clove-like fragrance and floats above a neat mound of silvery-blue foliage. Blooming in late spring and often again in autumn, this compact, evergreen perennial offers delicate beauty with dependable performance—perfect for borders, containers, and sun-drenched garden edges.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 15–20 cm
• Spread: 20–30 cm, forming a compact, rounded cushion
• Flower Colour: White with a bold rose-pink eye; fully double, fringed blooms
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer, with potential for fall rebloom
• Foliage: Silvery-blue, narrow evergreen leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil; thrives in dry, lean conditions and resents excess winter moisture

Uses and Benefits: Dianthus 'Kiss and Tell' is ideal for edging borders, filling containers, or tucking into gravel and rock gardens where its subtle colouring and compact habit can be admired up close. The fragrant blooms attract pollinators, while the evergreen foliage offers texture and structure all year long. Its low maintenance needs and high aesthetic appeal make it a favourite for small garden spaces and sun-loving designs.

Companion Plants: Pair Dianthus 'Kiss and Tell' with Leptinella 'Platt’s Black', whose dark, finely cut foliage contrasts beautifully with the clean white flowers and mirrors the rosy eye. Add Heuchera 'Paris', whose soft green leaves and coral-red flower spikes echo the dianthus’s pink tones while adding vertical interest. Round out the trio with Thymus 'Wooly Thyme', a dense, silvery mat that gently weaves through the planting, enhancing texture and fragrance at ground level.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with sharply drained soil. Avoid overly moist or nutrient-rich sites, especially in winter. Deadhead blooms regularly to encourage reblooming and keep the plant tidy. Shear lightly after flowering to refresh foliage. Divide every 2–3 years in early spring or autumn to maintain a healthy, compact form.

History: Dianthus 'Pretty Poppers™ Kiss and Tell' is part of the Pretty Poppers™ series by Proven Winners, a modern line of compact, floriferous dianthus bred for bright colour, fragrance, and continuous performance. Its lineage includes Dianthus plumarius and Dianthus gratianopolitanus, traditional favourites admired for their evergreen mounds and spicy-scented blooms. 'Kiss and Tell' offers a fresh interpretation of these heritage plants, blending cottage garden charm with modern elegance.

Final Thoughts: Elegant and endearing, Dianthus 'Kiss and Tell' adds a soft-spoken yet striking presence to the sunny garden. When combined with the moody texture of Leptinella 'Platt’s Black', the vertical grace of Heuchera 'Paris', and the silvery softness of Thymus 'Wooly Thyme', it creates a layered, fragrant, and pollinator-friendly display that’s full of contrast and cohesion. A refined beauty with a playful edge—perfect for gardeners who love subtle drama and lasting charm.