Dianthus Haematocalyx

The blood-calyxed pink is a Balkan mountain species forming low evergreen cushions of narrow grey-green leaves. Slender stems carry bright rose to deep pink flowers, but the most distinctive feature is the dark red or blood-purple calyx beneath each bloom. This richly coloured cup remains decorative after the petals have fallen and gives the species its name. Native to rocky limestone slopes, screes and high mountain grassland in Greece and neighbouring regions, it is a superb trough or crevice plant. Full sun and extremely sharp drainage keep the cushion compact and healthy.