The carnation family (Caryophyllaceae) is way more diverse than you might think! Beyond the classic florist’s flower, this family includes a whole bunch of hardy, beautiful plants that can really make your garden pop.
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++Sandworts (Minuartia)
Sandworts are herbaceous plants that feel right at home in cooler climates and high altitudes. If you’re gardening in a chillier region, this member of the carnation family is a fantastic choice. There are tons of varieties to choose from, and they aren’t picky at all—they’ll even grow happily in rocky soil. Plus, they produce charming little white flowers that add a delicate touch to your landscape.
++Sandwort (Arenaria)
Arenaria is a total pro at creating a lush green carpet over rocky terrain, topped off with bright white blooms. It’s incredibly low-maintenance, which is why so many gardeners love using it in rock gardens. You won’t need to water it constantly, and it plays well with other plants. It’s subtle yet eye-catching—perfect for adding a refined accent to your garden beds.
++Soapwort (Saponaria)
Soapwort is an evergreen, hardy perennial that just keeps on giving. It has a lovely mounding habit with dark green leaves and puts on a serious show of flowers starting in May. Once the blooms fade, they develop into interesting seed capsules. It’s not fussy about soil, either—it’ll thrive in gravelly or sandy spots where other plants might struggle.
++Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus)
Sweet William is usually grown as a biennial. When planted in the right spot, these beauties can reach up to 28 inches tall. They feature the classic dark green foliage of the Dianthus family and produce incredibly lush, dense flower clusters. Typically, you’ll see the best blooms in the second year. They start flowering in June and can keep going all the way into December, giving you a long season of color to enjoy.
++Cottage Pinks (Dianthus plumarius)
You can spot Cottage Pinks by the cool, bluish-silvery tint of their green leaves. They are famous for their amazing fragrance and distinctive fringed petals that look like they’ve been trimmed with pinking shears. These are a staple for flower beds, and if you love making your own bouquets, they are an absolute must-have for your cutting garden.
++Maiden Pinks (Dianthus deltoides)
Maiden Pinks form a thick, low-growing mat of green foliage with flower stems that pop up about 8 inches high. From June through September, you can harvest bright white or vivid pink flowers for small arrangements. Of course, they look just as good left in the garden! In the right location, these little guys will keep your garden looking cheerful all summer long.
++Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus)
The “Gartennelke” or standard Carnation is the absolute classic of the family. Originally from the Mediterranean, they’ve become a favorite all across the globe. They come in almost every color imaginable, so you can find one to match any garden palette. Just make sure to give them plenty of sunlight and mix some compost or humus into the soil when planting. They’re super versatile and fit into almost any garden style.
++China Pinks (Dianthus chinensis)
China Pinks are typically grown as annuals and are known for their delicate, dainty blossoms. If you’re looking for a plant that will provide a massive burst of color for a single season, these are your best bet. Since they are annuals, you don’t have to worry about winterizing them—just enjoy their beauty while the weather is warm!