Dianthus alpinus 'Joans Blood'

Selected cultivar of Dianthus alpinus, 'Joan's Blood' is one of the best known and most cultivated among dwarf alpine pinks. It is distinguished from the type species by two combined characteristics that give it a very marked personality: narrow, linear foliage tinged with dark bronze-purple, and flowers of an intense magenta pink, almost garish, centered with a deep crimson eye edged with white.

The cushion is low, dense, 5 to 10 cm in height. The flower buds are a very dark purple before opening, further accentuating the contrast with the blooming flowers. In cultivation, its flowering extends from May to July.

This cultivar owes its name to Joan Elliott, wife of the British collector Joe Elliott, who selected it. It requires the same conditions as the type species: full sun, calcareous and very well-drained soil, without stagnant moisture in winter. Its dual ornamentation — colored foliage and bright flowering — makes it a particularly sought-after subject for rock gardens and well-tended alpine gardens.