Dianthus Acicularis

Needle pink is a hardy Eurasian species forming tufts of extremely narrow, needle-like blue-green leaves. Short stems carry fragrant white flowers with deeply fringed petals, each bloom appearing finely cut and almost feathery above the rigid foliage. Native to rocky slopes, dry steppe and stony river ground from eastern Europe through Siberia and Kazakhstan, it is adapted to severe cold and poor mineral soil. Its crisp white flowers and distinctive foliage are especially effective in a trough, limestone crevice or alpine house where sharp drainage and full sun maintain a compact habit.