Dianthus caryophyllus Carnation (Caryophyllaceae)

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Dianthus caryophyllus
Carnation
(1 Page of 5)

The Dianthus caryophyllus plant species is found in Europe - W. and S. France. Occasionally naturalized in Britain[17]. It is a member of the Caryophyllaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Carnation.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Dianthus caryophyllus
Common Name:  Carnation
Family:  Caryophyllaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  1   Mature Width:  0.5

Habitat:  A plant of limestone soils, it is often found on old walls in Britain[17].

General Uses: An essentail oil is obtained from the flowers[46, 171]. It is used in perfumery. 500kg of flowers produce 100g of oil[61]. The flowers are harvested when they are fully open in the morning, preferably after 3 hours exposure to sunlight[238]. The flower heads are dried and used in pot-pourri[238]. The plant is quite rich in saponins. The leaves can be simmered in water and this water can then be used as a soap for cleaning the skin, clothes etc[201].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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