Carnation

The carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. It is widely cultivated for its fringe-petaled flowers, which are often fragrant and come in a variety of colors.

Description

Carnations are herbaceous perennial plants that can grow up to 80 cm tall. The leaves are glaucous greyish green to blue-green, slender, and up to 15 cm long. The flowers are produced singly or up to five together in a cyme; they are 3–5 cm in diameter, and sweetly scented. The original natural flower color is bright pinkish-purple, but cultivars of other colors, including red, white, yellow, and green, have been developed.

Cultivation

Carnations are popular as garden plants and as cut flowers. They prefer well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil, and full sun. They are hardy in USDA zones 6–9. Carnations are propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

Varieties

There are numerous cultivars and hybrids of carnations, bred for their size, color, and fragrance. Some popular varieties include:

• Dianthus caryophyllus 'Grenadin'
• Dianthus caryophyllus 'Chabaud'
• Dianthus caryophyllus 'Giant Chabaud'

Uses

Carnations are used in floral arrangements, corsages, and boutonnieres. They are also used in the perfume industry for their fragrance. In some cultures, carnations are used in traditional medicine.

Symbolism

Carnations have a rich symbolism and are often associated with love, fascination, and distinction. Different colors of carnations carry different meanings:

• Red carnations symbolize love and admiration.
• White carnations represent pure love and good luck.
• Pink carnations are a symbol of a mother's undying love.

History

Carnations have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. They were used in ancient Greek and Roman ceremonies and have been a popular flower in Europe since the Middle Ages. The name "carnation" is believed to be derived from the Latin word "carnis" (flesh), referring to the original color of the flower, or "incarnation", referring to the incarnation of God made flesh.

See also

• Floral symbolism
• List of garden plants

References

• Huxley, A., ed. (1992). New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. Macmillan ISBN 0-333-47494-5.
• Brickell, C., ed. (2008). The Royal Horticultural Society A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants. Dorling Kindersley ISBN 978-1-4053-3296-5.

External links

• RHS Plant Selector - Dianthus caryophyllus