Dianthus 'Classic Coral'

Dianthus 'Classic Coral': A Sunset Blush in Bloom

Glowing like the last light of day, Dianthus 'Classic Coral' brings a warm, uplifting hue to the garden with its soft coral-pink blooms. Each finely fringed petal radiates from a small, ruby-hued centre, creating a delicate yet striking contrast above compact cushions of silvery-blue foliage. Blooming in late spring with a tendency to rebloom in cooler autumn weather, this fragrant perennial brings lasting charm to borders, rock gardens, and containers. Its refined palette and tidy form make it as versatile as it is beautiful.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 20–25 cm
• Spread: 25–30 cm, forming a compact, low-growing mound
• Flower Colour: Warm coral-pink with a rosy centre; single blooms with finely fringed petals
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer, with potential for fall rebloom
• Foliage: Silvery-blue, narrow leaves forming an evergreen cushion
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil; dislikes wet, heavy soils

Uses and Benefits: Dianthus 'Classic Coral' is ideal for edging, small-space plantings, and containers, where its vibrant blooms and tidy growth can be appreciated up close. Its sweet, clove-like fragrance draws in pollinators, while the evergreen foliage provides structure and subtle colour throughout the seasons. Whether softening the edge of a stone path or brightening a gravel bed, this low-maintenance perennial offers reliable beauty with minimal effort.

Companion Plants: Pair Dianthus 'Classic Coral' with Sedum 'Angelina', whose golden, trailing foliage picks up the warm tones of the blooms and adds a contrasting texture. Add Festuca 'Buddy Blue' to echo the silvery tones of the dianthus leaves while contributing upright form and cool balance. Complete the look with Geranium 'Biokovo', whose soft pink-veined flowers and mounding habit create a seamless blend of colour, fragrance, and cottage-garden charm.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with sharply drained soil, avoiding areas prone to winter wetness. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom and keep the plant looking fresh. Shear back lightly after the main bloom to rejuvenate foliage. Divide every 2–3 years in early spring or fall to maintain vigour and flower production.

History: Dianthus 'Classic Coral' is part of the Fruit Punch® series by Proven Winners, a group of modern selections bred for brilliant colour, compact habit, and extended bloom. These cultivars are rooted in the tradition of Dianthus plumarius, a beloved species known for its fragrant, fringed flowers and tolerance of lean, dry soils. 'Classic Coral' brings a cheerful, modern hue to this classic garden lineage.

Final Thoughts: Cheerful, fragrant, and finely detailed, Dianthus 'Classic Coral' adds a soft splash of warmth wherever it's planted. Combined with the golden spill of Sedum 'Angelina', the cool poise of Festuca 'Buddy Blue', and the graceful tones of Geranium 'Biokovo', it creates a harmonious planting full of seasonal interest and subtle elegance. A perfect choice for gardeners who love delicate texture, low maintenance, and lasting bloom.