Dianthus caryophyllus

Lore & Background

Carnations were mentioned in Greek literature 2,000 years ago. The term dianthus was coined by Greek botanist Theophrastus, from the Ancient Greek words for divine ('dios') and flower ('anthos'). The name 'carnation' is believed to come from the Latin corona, meaning 'wreath, garland, chaplet, crown', as it was used in Greek and Roman ceremonial crowns, or possibly from the Latin caro (genitive carnis), 'flesh', referring to the natural color of the flower, or in Christian iconography incarnatio, 'incarnation'. Although originally applied to this species, the name carnation is also often applied to other species of Dianthus and to garden hybrids.

Reader's Guide

Dianthus caryophyllus has been cultivated for over 2,000 years, making its exact natural range uncertain. It is a herbaceous perennial with glaucous leaves and fragrant, hermaphrodite flowers that are typically bright pinkish-purple in the wild, though many color cultivars exist. The plant requires well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil and full sun. Carnations have been used for medical purposes, such as for upset stomach and fever, and historically their fragrance was used in vinegar, beer, wine, sauces, and salads. Crossbreeding with D. capitatus has produced hybrids resistant to bacterial wilt, though further breeding is needed to improve flower appearance. The flower is the national flower of Spain, Monaco, and Slovenia, and the state flower of Ohio. It is also the birth flower for January and the traditional first wedding anniversary flower.

Did You Know?

• The name 'carnation' may derive from the Latin corona, meaning 'wreath' or 'crown', as it was used in Greek and Roman ceremonial crowns.
• The carnation is the national flower of Spain, Monaco, and Slovenia, and the state flower of Ohio.