Genus guide
Dianthus — 21 species
Part of the Pinks & carnations family (Caryophyllaceae)
Dianthus is a large genus of flowering plants — including Sweet William, China pink, and Superb pink — prized for their clove-scented, fringed blooms in shades of pink, red, white, and bicolor. They thrive in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct light daily, and prefer well-drained soil with roughly one inch of water per week, allowed to dry slightly between waterings. All Dianthus species are toxic to cats and dogs according to the ASPCA, typically causing mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.
All Dianthus species we cover
- Alpine Pink
- Balkan Pink
- Balkan Rock Pink
- Blood-Cupped Pink
- Cheddar Pink
- China pink
- Dianthus 'Doris'
- Dianthus 'Mrs Sinkins'
- Dianthus deltoides
- Dianthus gratianopolitanus 'Firewitch'
- Freyn's Pink
- Garden Pink 'Mrs Sinkins'
- Glacier Pink
- Neglected Pink
- Peacock Pink
- Sand Pink
- Small-scaled Pink
- Superb pink
- Sweet William
- Telstar Mix China Pink
- Transylvanian Pink
Dianthus — frequently asked questions
Are Dianthus plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Dianthus are not pet-safe. Of the 21 Dianthus species in the Growli library, 21 (100%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 0 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Dianthus plants need?
Most Dianthus do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Dianthus easy to care for?
Some Dianthus suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Dianthus varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 21 Dianthus species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Dianthus, the rest follow closely.
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