SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dianthus × allwoodii 'Frosty Fire'

COMMON NAME: 'Frosty Fire' Dianthus

GARDEN SIZE: 6 to 9 inches tall x 9 to 12 inches wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 3 to 8

EXPOSURE: Full Sun, Part Sun

WATER & SOIL: Prefers well-drained soil and has low to average water requirements.

HABIT (FORM): Compact, mat-forming

FOLIAGE: Semi-evergreen; narrow, blue-green leaves

FLOWERS: Red with white spots, double, 1-inch wide, fragrant

PLANT ORIGIN: Hybrid. Europe and Asia, with a few species in Africa, and one species (D. repens) in arctic North America.

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Feeds local North American bees and lepidoptera (moths and butterflies)

FERTILIZING: Use root stimulant or 4-3-3 fertilizer during initial planting, then feed lightly in late winter or early spring with compost or organic fertilizer.

PRUNING: Deadhead to encourage additional blooming. Prune off brown material as needed for aesthetics.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Could be mildly toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Research further if concerned.

USES: Borders, Groundcover, Cottage Gardens, Containers.