Culture
Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Prefers fertile, slightly alkaline soils. Some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer climates. Space plants 9-12” apart to promote good air circulation. Remove spent flowers to prolong bloom period. Divide plants every 2-3 years. Generally intolerant of the hot and humid summer conditions of the deep South. Propagate by division or cuttings.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Dianthus × allwoodii is a hybrid dianthus bred in the 1920’s by English nurseryman Montague Allwood in which he crossed D. plumarius (cottage pink) and D. caryophylus (carnation). Vigorous, clump-forming plants. Large and variable group of hybrids. Plants are noted for gray-green foliage and fragrant solitary (sometimes 2) 2” flowers (single, semi-double or double – mostly double) per stem which are often patterned or zoned with many fringed petals. Stems to 1-1.5’. Vigorous tufts of narrow linear, gray-green leaves. Often found listed under various names, including Dianthus 'Allwoodii' and Dianthus allwoodii.
Genus name comes from the Greek words dios meaning divine and anthos meaning flower.
Specific epithet recognizes Montague Allwood, an English nurseryman who specialized in breeding dianthus.
'Frosty Fire' has narrow, blue-green foliage that forms a low, compact mat and frilly, double, 1 inch wide flowers that are bright red with some spots of white. It will bloom profusely from late spring to summer, with some reblooming to early fall if spent flowers are removed. The fragrant flowers will attract butterflies. ‘Frosty Fire’ grows to 1/2 to 3/4 ft. tall and 3/4 to 1 ft. wide.
Problems
Leaf spots can be a problem in humid conditions where plants are crowded. Crown rot may occur in wet, poorly-drained soil conditions. Watch for snails and slugs.
Uses
Rock gardens, border fronts or edgings. Banks and slopes. Ground cover. Containers.