Chabaud Benigna – Dianthus Seed

Scented, French garden heirloom.
Vintage carnations present the sweet and spicy fragrance of clove. Frilly, 1 1/2-2" double blooms with a small percentage of singles. White to creamy white petals with a rose-colored edge. Grass-like, gray or blue-green foliage. Blooms late July through August in our trials and is best grown as an annual for cut-flower production. Chabaud is an old-fashioned type dating back to as early as 1904. D. caryophyllus is native to the Mediterranean, where emotional attachment to this flower first took root. Also known as annual carnation. Pronounced shab-o (with a long "o") ben-eeg-na. Tender perennial in Zones 6-8.

• Edible Flowers: Use the flower petals to garnish salads, desserts, soups, icing, and cold drinks. Flavor is of mild clove. Remove the petals from the flower base before consuming as the base can be quite bitter.

Ht. 24-30". Avg. 14,100 seeds/oz. Packet: 100 seeds.

DAYS TO GERMINATION: 7-14 days at 65-72°F (18-22°C)

SOWING: Transplant (recommended) – Sow 6-8 weeks before last frost. Lightly press seed into growing medium. Transplant into cell packs or 3-4" containers 20-25 days after sowing. Harden off and transplant out. Cool temperatures of 50-55°F (10-13°C) are required to keep the plants low growing and basal branching. Avoid warm temperatures in excess of 65°F (18°C), especially at night, which will product soft growth. Direct seed – Early spring when a light frost is still possible.

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.

PLANT HEIGHT: Varies.

PLANT SPACING: 6".

HARDINESS ZONES: Zones 6-8. Best results when planted as an annual.

HARVEST: 10-20% of flowers in cluster or spray are open.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Rich, sandy, well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline.

USES: Excellent commercial cut flower and is also suitable for gallon container production with one plant per gallon container. Also makes a lovely bedding plant.

PELLETED SEED: If usingseed, we recommend consistent soil moisture during the germination period. seed must be kept cool and dry prior to planting, and should be used within one year of purchase.

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dianthus spp.