The dianthus has been revered for more than 2,000 years. Sometimes called the
“flower of the gods,” it is one of the oldest cultivated flower varieties.
The history of this flower dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times. The
scientific name “Dianthus” is thought to originate from the Greek words “dios,”
referring to the god Zeus, and “anthos,” meaning flower. Its more common name,
carnation, is believed to have come from the word “coronation” or “corone”
(meaning flower garland), as carnations were among the flowers used in garlands
worn by the classic Greeks and Romans.
Native to the southern European areas, carnations came to the United States in
the early 1800s and, because of their great appeal, moved across the country
with settlers.
The well known, long blooming, ruffled, clove-like scented Dianthus caryophyllus
variety is now a garden favorite. It is also commercially grown in pink, peach,
red, yellow, white, purple and even green – often associated with holidays such
as green for St. Patrick’s Day.
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