Chinese Pink, Rainbow pink, Annual Pink, China Pink

Dianthus chinensis

Physical Characteristics

Dianthus chinensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antibacterial Antiphlogistic Diaphoretic Diuretic Emmenagogue Febrifuge Haemostatic Ophthalmic Tonic Urinary The Chinese pink has been used for over 2,000 years in Chinese herbal medicine[238]. The whole plant is a bitter tonic herb that stimulates the digestive and urinary systems and also the bowels[238]. It is also anthelmintic, antibacterial, antiphlogistic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge and haemostatic[218, 238, 279]. It is used internally in the treatment of acute urinary tract infections (especially cystitis), urinary stones, constipation and failure to menstruate[238]. It is used externally to treat skin inflammations and swellings[238]. The old leaves are crushed and used for clearing the eyesight[218]. The plants are harvested just before the flowers open and are dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

None known