Dianthus 'Flutterby'

Dianthus ‘Flutterby’ is a petite variety which bears masses of sweetly-fragrant, magenta flowers with a white picotee edge on bushy, compact plants. Height and spread: 20-25cm (8-10in)

Dianthus are classic cottage garden plants. They form neat tussocks of blue-green foliage and with diligent dead-heading they will flower for most of the summer. The flowers are distinguished by their serrated edges and clove-like fragrance. They have a firm tradition as florists flowers, their long stems making them excellent for arranging and lasting 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.

Culinary note: Some parts of these flowers are edible. Most dianthus have a pleasant spicy, floral, clove-like taste, especially the more fragrant varieties, and are ideal for decorating or adding to cakes. They'll also make a colourful garnish to soups, salads and the punch bowl. The petals will add zest to ice cream, sorbets, salads, fruit salad, dessert sauces, seafood and stir-fries. For more details about edible flowers click here.