Dianthus 'Shirley Temple'

As pretty as its film star namesake, ‘Shirley Temple’ produces masses of rose-pink flowers with a dark pink ring at the centre. One of the ‘Cocktail’ series, ‘Shirley Temple’ is noted for its exceptionally long flowering period and excellent scent. Height: 35-40cm (14-16in). Spread: 30-35cm (12-14in).

Dianthus are classic cottage garden plants. They form neat tussocks of blue-green foliage and with diligent deadheading they will flower for most of the summer. The flowers are distinguished by their serrated edges and many varieties have a clove-like fragrance. They have a firm tradition as florists flowers, their long stems making them excellent for arranging and they will last for up to 2 weeks in a vase. Dianthus enjoy freely draining soils in sunny positions and are suited to border edges, rockeries and gravel gardens. They also make excellent low-maintenance container specimens, where their scent can be enjoyed close to seating.