Carnation, Clove Pink, Grenadine
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Caryophyllales, Family: Caryophyllaceae, Genus: Dianthus, Species: Dianthus caryophyllus · Caryophyllaceae (Pink family) · Simple, evergreen (perennial herb)
Species
Dianthus caryophyllus
Leaf Type
Simple, evergreen (perennial herb)
Family
Caryophyllaceae (Pink family)
Shape
Linear to lanceolate
Size
Approximately 3 to 6 inches long and 0.25 inches wide; typical for the species cultivation range.
Margin
Entire (smooth)
Arrangement
Opposite, often decussate, emerging from thickened nodes on the stem.
Rarity
Very Common (widely found in florist shops and gardens).
Color & Pattern
Glaucous grey-green to blue-green foliage; the specimen shows a natural green hue but the flower petals exhibit browning (necrosis) due to age or drying processes.
Venation Pattern
Parallel to very faint pinnate, typical of narrow monocot-like dicot leaves.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) with a waxy, glaucous coating that gives it a matte appearance.
Description
An herbaceous perennial plant growing up to 80 cm tall. The leaves are slender and glaucous. The flowers are produced singly or in a cyme, featuring five petals (though many cultivars are 'double-flowered' with many more) that are fringed or deeply serrated at the edges.
Key Features
Characteristic swollen nodes on the stem, linear grey-green leaves, and fragrant flowers with a tooth-edged petal structure and a tubular calyx.
Habitat
Native to the Mediterranean region; prefers well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil with full sun exposure.
Geographic Range
Originally native to the Mediterranean (Greece, Italy, Spain, etc.), but now naturalized and cultivated globally.
Condition Notes
The specimen is a pressed plant. The leaves are in Fair condition, but the primary flower is senescent and browned (dead), while a secondary bud remains partially colorful.
Interesting Facts
Carnations have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. Different colors carry specific meanings; for example, red symbolizes deep love, while white represents pure love and good luck.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental flower in the florist industry. Historically used in vinegars, salads, and for making syrups. Some traditional uses include treating fevers and stomach aches.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar for long-tongued insects, specifically butterflies and moths. Generally hardy and used for soil stabilization in rock gardens.
Similar Species
Dianthus chinensis (China Pink) which usually has broader leaves and lacks the same fragrance; Dianthus barbatus (Sweet William) which has flowers in dense clusters.
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinctive 'swollen nodes' on the stems and the spicy, clove-like scent of the flowers in late spring and summer.
Toxicity Warning
Mildly Toxic. The leaves contain saponins which can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities and can lead to minor skin irritation (dermatitis) in some individuals and pets.