Indian Carpet Dianthus is a compact, richly colored blend of fragrant blooms that creates a stunning, low-growing mat of color from late spring through summer. Reaching just 6 to 10 inches tall, this early-flowering heirloom produces masses of fringed, bicolor flowers in shades of red, pink and white. The dense, spreading habit makes it ideal for ground cover, borders, and container gardens. Known for its sweet clove-like fragrance, Indian Carpet not only adds beauty but also invites butterflies and other pollinators to the garden. With its uniform growth and long-lasting blooms, it's a reliable, low-maintenance choice for high-impact color in tight spaces.
Often referred to as China Pink or Sweet William, Indian Carpet Dianthus is perfect for edging flower beds, filling in rock gardens, or brightening up window boxes and hanging baskets. Its vivid color mix pairs beautifully with compact companions like alyssum, lobelia, violas, and dusty miller. The neat, spreading form also makes it a useful filler between stepping stones or along garden paths, where its fragrance and soft blooms can be enjoyed up close.
Indian Carpet Dianthus is a biennial and will bloom the second year after planting. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, performing best with moderate moisture and good air circulation. Direct sow seeds after all danger of frost has passed, or start indoors 6 to 8 weeks prior to last frost date.
