Dianthus 'Coconut Surprise'

Dianthus 'Coconut Surprise': A Fragrant Frost with a Dark Heart

Cool and refined, Dianthus 'Coconut Surprise' brings crisp contrast and classic charm to the garden. Fully double, snow-white blooms are delicately fringed and marked by a rich crimson eye at the centre, creating a striking, two-toned display. Rising above a tidy mound of silvery-blue foliage, the flowers release a spicy clove scent that attracts pollinators and evokes the essence of traditional cottage gardens. Blooming in late spring and often again in autumn, this compact perennial blends elegance and resilience in equal measure.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 20–25 cm
• Spread: 25–30 cm, forming a compact, low mound
• Flower Colour: Pure white with a dark crimson 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 dislikes winter wet

Uses and Benefits: Dianthus 'Coconut Surprise' is ideal for edging paths, tucking into rock gardens, or brightening containers with its bold yet clean colour palette. Its evergreen foliage provides soft texture throughout the seasons, while the fragrant blooms offer pollinator appeal and old-fashioned romance. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, this dianthus is a perfect fit for small gardens, xeriscapes, or anywhere a pop of crisp white and deep contrast is desired.

Companion Plants: Pair Dianthus 'Coconut Surprise' with Ajuga 'Chocolate Chip', whose glossy, deep green-bronze leaves and cobalt-blue spring blooms provide rich contrast beneath the white flowers. Add Festuca 'Boulder Blue' for upright, steely-blue blades that echo the dianthus’s foliage and offer sculptural rhythm. Round out the composition with Geranium 'Biokovo', whose soft white flowers and gentle pink veining mirror the dianthus tones while extending the bloom season and supporting pollinators.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with sharply drained soil. Avoid overly rich or wet conditions, especially in winter. Deadhead regularly to promote rebloom and keep plants tidy. Lightly shear after flowering to rejuvenate foliage. Divide clumps every 2–3 years in spring or fall to maintain vigour and encourage continued blooming.

History: Dianthus 'Coconut Surprise' is part of the Fruit Punch® series by Proven Winners, bred for compact form, repeat flowering, and exceptional garden performance. With its crisp colour contrast and spicy fragrance, it draws inspiration from classic Dianthus plumarius, long loved for its frilly blooms, evergreen form, and resilience in lean soils. This modern selection carries the tradition forward with elegance and modern versatility.

Final Thoughts: Cool, classic, and quietly bold, Dianthus 'Coconut Surprise' offers an unexpected twist on timeless garden style. When paired with the moody foliage of Ajuga 'Chocolate Chip', the upright texture of Festuca 'Boulder Blue', and the gentle grace of Geranium 'Biokovo', it creates a garden vignette that is refined, fragrant, and full of seasonal depth. A bright, enduring accent for gardeners who favour harmony with a touch of surprise.