Carnation Seeds - Chabaud Benigna Dianthus

Product Information

Seed Count: ~50 seeds
Botanical Name: Dianthus caryophyllus
Plant Height: 60–75 cm (24–30 in)
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Days to Maturity: 130–140 days
Frost Hardy: No (Tender perennial in Zones 6–9, grown as annual elsewhere)

Chabaud Benigna Carnation Seeds with Vintage, Fragrant Blooms

Chabaud Benigna carnation seeds produce elegant, old-fashioned blooms with softly ruffled petals in delicate pastel tones. This heirloom variety is known for its full, fragrant flowers and long, sturdy stems, making it especially well suited for cutting gardens, borders, and container plantings. Blooming continuously through summer into early autumn, these carnations add classic charm and refined colour to traditional and cottage-style gardens.

Selected by Circle Farms, a Canadian seed shop, Chabaud Benigna carnations are easy to grow from seed and reward gardeners with reliable performance and long-lasting blooms. Their nectar-rich flowers attract bees and butterflies, while their compact growth habit makes them versatile for a wide range of garden spaces.

Growing Details

Germination: 7–14 days at 18–22°C (65–72°F)
Seed Depth: Surface sow, press lightly into soil
Plant Spacing: 20–30 cm (8–12 in)

Indoor sowing: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, keeping soil consistently moist and warm until germination.
Direct sowing: Sow outdoors in early spring when light frost is still possible.

Dianthus (Genus Overview & Growing Characteristics)

Dianthus is a genus of flowering plants in the Caryophyllaceae family, commonly known for carnations, pinks, and sweet williams. Plants in the Dianthus genus are valued for their ruffled, fragrant blooms, clove-like scent, and excellent performance in both ornamental and cut flower gardens. Dianthus species typically prefer full sun and well-drained soil and are known for their long bloom period, making them a popular choice for borders, containers, and cottage-style gardens. Many dianthus varieties, including Dianthus caryophyllus, produce nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators and have edible petals when properly prepared.

FAQs

Can Chabaud Benigna carnations be grown in containers?

Yes, this variety performs very well in containers when planted in deep pots with good drainage and placed in full sun.

Are Chabaud Benigna carnations good for cut flowers?

Yes, their long stems, full blooms, and pleasant fragrance make them excellent for bouquets and floral arrangements.

Are the flowers edible?

Yes, carnation petals are edible and have a mild clove-like flavour. Remove the bitter white base of each petal before consuming.

How are Chabaud Benigna carnations different from other carnations?

This variety is known for its compact growth, vintage-style ruffled flowers, long bloom period, and suitability for both garden beds and containers.