Dianthus Seeds, Rainbow Loveliness Mix

Dianthus plumarius 'Rainbow Loveliness Improved Mixed' is a rescued heirloom dianthus variety that was nearly lost to cultivation — and it’s easy to see why growers fought to save it. Plants are loaded with large, deeply fringed flowers that give each bloom a soft, feathery, uniquely ornate appearance unlike the simpler fringing seen on most pinks. The perfume-like fragrance is intense and complex, reminiscent of carnation, jasmine, and rose in combination. Colors range through lilac, rose, carmine, white, and purple, with many blooms bicolored or sporting contrasting rings. A natural addition to old-fashioned cottage gardens, cut flower gardens, and romantic borders — and compact and hardy enough to thrive in containers too. Flowers in its first year from seed.

Plant Highlights

• Deeply fringed, feathery flowers — a rescued heirloom variety of outstanding distinction
• Intensely fragrant: carnation, jasmine, and rose notes combined
• Rich color mix: lilac, rose, carmine, white, purple — many bicolors and contrasting rings
• Flowers in its first year from seed
• Compact habit; excellent for containers and border fronts
• Deer resistant

Growing Guide

Starting indoors: Sow 6–8 weeks before frost season ends. Use sterile starter mix; sow seeds on the surface and do not cover — press lightly into soil and keep moist. Germination in 14–28 days at 68°F. Transplant when temperatures have warmed.

Direct sowing: Sow outdoors after frost season when soil temperatures have reached at least 40°F. Broadcast seeds and lightly rake into soil no more than ⅛ inch deep. Keep moist until germination.

Site & soil: Full sun; well-drained soil, pH 6.0–7.2. Good drainage is essential. Space 12 inches apart. Approx. 5,000 seeds covers 100 sq ft.

Planting Specs

• Type: Perennial
• USDA Zones: 3–9 (USDA Zone 2 with mulching)
• Height: 8 inches
• Bloom season: Spring and summer
• Bloom color: Lilac, rose, carmine, white, purple — mixed bicolors
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, pH 6.0–7.2
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Germ temp: 68°F | Avg. germ time: 14–28 days
• Spacing: 12 inches