Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Dianthus gratianopolitanus ‘Firewitch’
Cheddar Pinks

- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Height
- 6 to 8 inches
- Width
- 12 to 18 inches
- Flower color
- Bright magenta-pink
- Foliage color
- Gray-blue, grass-like foliage
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; deadheading encourages repeat blooming
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts butterflies and bees
About this plant
Dianthus gratianopolitanus 'Firewitch', commonly known as Cheddar Pink, is a popular perennial prized for its fragrant, vibrant magenta-pink flowers and dense, blue-green, grassy foliage. Blooming in late spring through early summer, the flowers appear in clusters, releasing a spicy, clove-like scent that attracts pollinators. The vivid blooms contrast beautifully with the evergreen foliage, creating a striking and colorful display.
Originating from the Cheddar Gorge region in England, 'Firewitch' is a standout cultivar bred for its exceptional flower color and fragrance. Its long-lasting blooms and tidy, mounding habit make it an ideal choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers. The plant is also known for its drought tolerance and ability to rebloom later in the season, providing a splash of color and delightful fragrance throughout the warmer months. Its combination of beauty and resilience has earned it the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.
Works well in
Cottage Gardens · Rock Gardens · Pathways & Walkways · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Candytuft · Purple coneflowers · Salvias · Blue fescue · Yarrows · Creeping phlox
Design tip
Edge sunny paths or stone terraces with this compact perennial to soften hardscape without obscuring its clean lines. Repeating the rounded mounds at regular intervals creates a polished rhythm that carries visitors comfortably through the garden.
