🌺 Red Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) – Description
The Red Carnation is a classic, beloved flowering plant known for its vibrant scarlet blooms, clove-like fragrance, and rich symbolism. A member of the Dianthus family, this herbaceous perennial produces frilled, velvety petals that make it a favorite in gardens, floral arrangements, and romantic bouquets.
Reaching 18–24 inches in height, the Red Carnation thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for borders, containers, and cutting gardens. Its long-lasting flowers bloom from late spring through summer, often reblooming with proper care.
More than just a garden favorite, the red carnation symbolizes deep love, admiration, and affection, making it a popular flower for Valentine’s Day, weddings, Mother’s Day, and memorials. This low-maintenance plant is also drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly, and adds both color and meaning wherever it grows.
🎁 Great For
Garden borders & flower beds
Container gardening
Romantic gifts & floral arrangements
Weddings, memorials, and special occasions
Pollinator-friendly landscapes
🌿 Red Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) – Care Guide
Red Carnations are easy-to-grow, low-maintenance flowering perennials known for their vibrant color and sweet fragrance. Follow these care instructions to keep your carnations thriving and blooming beautifully.
☀️ Light
🌱 Soil
Prefers well-drained, loose, loamy soil
Ideal pH: neutral to slightly alkaline (6.7 – 7.5)
Avoid heavy clay or soggy conditions (can cause root rot)
💧 Watering