Clove Pink is the common name of Dianthus caryophyllus species, from Caryophyllaceae family.
Also known as: wild carnation, gillyflower, pink.
A clove pink flower
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Features of Clove Pink
Height to 8-20 inches. Spread to 6-9 inches. Zone 5-8. Evergreen perennial
dark-brown, round, small seed.
gray-green, lance-shaped leaf.
pink, scented flower in summer.
Growing Clove Pink
- by cutting during summer. Pick shoots without flowers for cuttings.
- by root division during summer.
- by seed during spring. Plants grown from seeds often have unpredictable appearances.
- disease: Susceptible to mildew and other fungus diseases, especially during propagation or when growing under cover.
- growth: deadhead flowers to prolong flowering period.
- pest: Spray horticultural soap if spider mites are noticed.
- transplant: Transplant 12 inches apart.
One of the 300 species in the wild carnation family, clove pink was used as a sign of betrothal in Medieval art.
Flower petals have a strong smell of cloves, and are often candied in sugar and used as a substitute for rose.
Medicinally, clove pink is popular in Europe as a remedy for coronary and nervous disorders. It is also known to reduce fevers by inducing perspiration.
Using Clove Pink
Culinary
Dessert
Use crystallized petals to garnish desserts. (Use flower)
Drink
Float in drinks. (Use flower)
Salad
Add pink petals to salads. Remove the white heel which tastes bitter. (Use flower)
Sauce
Add flavour to syrup and vinegar. (Use flower)
Household
Fragrance
Add dried flowers to potpourri. (Use flower)
Medicinal
Medicine
Used as a nerve tonic in the past. (Use flower)
Traditional Remedies
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Please consult with your doctor before using clove pink for health related purposes.
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