Dianthus Oscar White

A compact, beautifully branched carnation producing masses of pure white, fully double blooms. The ruffled, carnation-style flowers sit neatly above attractive grey-green foliage and have a pleasant, spicy, clove-like fragrance. In Cape Town’s mild climate, this variety can flower from late winter and early spring through summer, with flowering potentially extending into autumn under favourable conditions. Its compact, mounded habit makes it perfect for pots, containers, borders, edging, rockeries and mixed flower beds, while the crisp white flowers create a sophisticated contrast when planted alongside colourful annuals and perennials. 

Why You'll Love It:

• Produces masses of pure white, fully double flowers with beautifully ruffled petals.
• Adds a lovely clove-like fragrance to sunny garden spaces.
• Compact and tidy, making it ideal for pots, borders, edging and containers.
• Excellent for creating elegant white-themed plantings and attracting bees and other pollinating insects.

Plant & Care

Plant in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil and avoid areas where water can remain around the roots. Water moderately and allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, particularly once established. Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage further flowering and maintain a neat appearance. For best performance, feed every two weeks during active growth, particularly when grown in containers. Good air circulation and well-drained soil will help prevent crown and root problems.

Did You Know?

The flowers of Dianthus are known for their distinctive spicy, clove-like fragrance, which is one reason carnations have been treasured as ornamental flowers for centuries. The name Dianthus comes from Greek words associated with “divine flower”, a fitting name for this elegant garden favourite.