Dianthus deltoides, Arctic Fire' FLOWERS Seed

Dianthus deltoides 'Arctic Fire' is a mat-forming perennial dianthus that produces a cheerful abundance of small, single white flowers each with a distinctive crimson-red eye, blooming in spring and summer and again in fall. The dark, fine-textured foliage spreads to form a dense, attractive groundcover mat — equally at home as a border front, rockery plant, or container specimen. Somewhat shade tolerant among dianthus varieties, and pleasantly fragrant. A compact, trouble-free performer that is excellent in pots and at the leading edge of a bed.

Plant Highlights

• Cheerful white flowers with a bold crimson-red eye; fragrant
• Blooms spring & summer, then again in fall
• Mat-forming habit — excellent groundcover, rockery, and border edging plant
• Somewhat shade tolerant — performs in half-day sun
• Excellent in pots and containers
• Deer resistant

Growing Guide

Starting indoors: Sow 6–8 weeks before frost season ends. Use sterile starter mix; sow seeds on the surface and barely cover. Transplant seedlings when outdoor temperatures have warmed.

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

Site & soil: Full sun to partial shade (at least a half day of sun); well-drained soil. Dianthus requires good drainage — wet or heavy soils will reduce performance and longevity. Space 8–10 inches apart.

Planting Specs

• Type: Perennial
• USDA Zones: 3–9
• Height: 6–8 inches (mat-forming)
• Bloom season: Spring, summer, and fall
• Bloom color: White with red eye
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Spacing: 8–10 inches