Thursday 18 October 2018

CARNATION 'MEMORIES'

Dianthus caryophyllus, the carnation or clove pink, is a species of Dianthus. It is probably native to the Mediterranean region but its exact range is unknown due to extensive cultivation for the last 2,000 years. It is an herbaceous perennial plant growing to 80 cm tall. The leaves are glaucous greyish green to blue-green, slender, up to 15 cm long.

The flowers are produced singly or up to five together in a cyme; they are 3–5 cm diameter, and sweetly scented; the original natural flower colour is bright pinkish-purple, but cultivars of other colours, including red, white, yellow and green, have been developed. Some fragrance-less carnation cultivars are often used as boutonnieres for men.

Dianthus 'Memories'  shown here is a modern version of the old-time favourite carnation variety 'Mrs Sinkins' introduced in 1863. It is an evergreen perennial with masses of highly scented, pure white flowers. Blooming in late Spring through Summer (with regular deadheading), the frilled blossoms rise on short, stout stems. Easy to grow, these carnations are perfect for a rock garden, a border or in containers. This hybrid belongs to the ScentFirst® series of carnations from Whetman Pinks.

Alzheimer’s Australia and its current president, Ita Buttrose worked with Carolyn Whetman in the UK, towards the release of the plant in order to raise awareness, and fund research for Alzheimer's disease. Ita is a passionate ambassador for Alzheimer’s Australia and extremely knowledgable on the subject. With scent being a powerful trigger of memory, the selection of this fragrant flowering plant to support this cause is very apt.

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme.


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