Culture
Amur pinks are short-lived perennials that may be grown from seed. They are best grown in gritty, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Drought tolerant once established. Start seed indoors 6-8 weeks before last spring frost date. Set out seedlings and/or purchased plants 1-2 weeks before last spring frost date. Plantings are less apt to burn out in poorly drained soils or in hot and humid St. Louis summers than some other species of dianthus. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong bloom. When flowering declines, plants may be sheared to promote additional bloom.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Dianthus amurensis is a short-lived perennial dianthus that is similar to Dianthus chinensis except for its perennial habit and purple-pink flowers that are often solitary. It is native to the Amur River region of Siberia.
Genus name comes from the Greek words dios meaning divine and anthos meaning flower.
Specific epithet means from the Amur River area in eastern Asia.
'Siberian Blue' (frequently sold in commerce as 'Siberian Blues') is an Amur pink cultivar that produces reddish-violet to lavender-blue flowers on stems rising to 12" tall over a bushy sprawling mound of lance-shaped green leaves (each to 2" long). Flowers bloom solitary or in three-flowered inflorescences. Flowers typically bloom from late spring to frost.
Problems
Susceptible to crown rot and rust, particularly in poorly-drained soils. Watch for snails and slugs.
Uses
Beds and borders. Edgings. Rock gardens. Cottage gardens. Group or mass near doors or walkways. Containers.