Carnation

Carnations hold deep symbolic meaning in many cultures. They are the official flower of Mother’s Day in several countries and have been adopted as emblems in labor movements. Their presence in art, literature, and rituals spans centuries, with color-specific meanings—red for love, white for purity, and pink for gratitude—woven into traditions and celebrations worldwide.

• Carnations can last up to three weeks after being cut, making them one of the longest-lasting cut flowers.
• Their spicy, clove-like scent is unique among common ornamental flowers.
• Some carnation petals are edible and have been used to flavor liqueurs such as Chartreuse.
• Carnation colors can be naturally occurring, dyed, or even genetically engineered.
• The carnation is known as “clavel” in Spanish and “œillet” in French, reflecting its global popularity.

Carnations are famed for their spicy, clove-like fragrance, which ranges from subtle to pronounced depending on the variety. Their color palette is vast, including white, pink, red, yellow, purple, bi-colored, and variegated blooms. Modern breeding and dyeing techniques have expanded the spectrum, even producing blue-toned flowers.

To cultivate carnations successfully, plant them in well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil and provide full sun exposure. They prefer moderate watering and benefit from regular deadheading to encourage blooming. Propagation by cuttings is common for maintaining cultivar purity. While moderately drought-tolerant, carnations are susceptible to fungal diseases, so good air circulation and careful watering are essential. Greenhouse cultivation is popular for commercial growers seeking year-round production.

Carnations are rich in symbolism, with meanings varying by color and culture. Red carnations express deep love and admiration, white signifies purity and luck, and pink is associated with gratitude and motherly affection. The flower also represents distinction and remembrance, making it a popular choice for commemorative events and celebrations.

• Sim Carnation: The industry standard for cut flowers, prized for its large blooms and sturdy stems.
• Chabaud Carnation: A popular garden variety known for its vibrant colors and fragrance.
• Grenadine: Traditional, richly colored cultivars often used in heritage gardens.
• Numerous regional and specialty cultivars exist, reflecting local preferences and breeding innovations.

Carnation breeding has a long history, with countless hybrid cultivars developed for color, form, and longevity. Crosses within the Dianthus genus have produced flowers with enhanced traits, such as extended vase life and novel colors. While no single breeder is credited with its domestication, European horticulturists in the 19th and 20th centuries played pivotal roles in shaping modern varieties. Many commercial cultivars have proprietary lineages, and ongoing breeding continues to expand the carnation’s diversity.

• Fusarium wilt: A destructive fungal disease affecting stems and roots.
• Rust: Fungal spores causing leaf and stem discoloration.
• Aphids and thrips: Common insect pests that feed on leaves and flowers.
• Management strategies include crop rotation, good air circulation, careful watering, and use of disease-resistant cultivars.

With greenhouse production and global distribution, carnations are available year-round. In temperate climates, outdoor blooming typically occurs from late spring through summer, but commercial growers ensure a steady supply regardless of season.

Carnations are primarily valued as ornamental plants and cut flowers, featuring prominently in bouquets, arrangements, and ceremonial displays. Select varieties are edible and used as garnishes or flavoring agents in specialty foods and liqueurs. Carnation essential oils contribute to perfumery, and the flower’s symbolic meanings make it a fixture in cultural and commemorative events worldwide.