Carnation (Standard)
The Carnation is one of the most popular flowers of all times. This single flower has a delicate ruffled multi-petaled, double blossom at the end of a long branching stem. The bloom can be 2 to 3 inches (5-8 cm) in diameter on a stem 1 to 3 feet (30-91 cm) long. Carnations are endowed with a fresh scent and a nice fluffy texture. Flowers are available in many different colors including white, red, pink, yellow, orange, purple and many bi-colors.
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Species: Dianthus caryophyllus
Origin: Native from Southern Europe to India.
Symbolizes: Carnation symbolize many things depending on the color: red for love and affection, white symbolizes pure love and good luck, and a pink Carnation the symbol of a Mother's undying love.
Also Known As: Clove Pink, Carn
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 34-38 F (1-3 C)
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality. Avoid softened water.
Vase Life: 7 to 21 days depending on the variety, anti-ethylene treatments, and use of flower food.
What to Look for When Purchasing
When buying Carnations, avoid stems with slab sides, bullheads, blown heads, sleepy appearance, splits, discoloration, and damage from insects and diseases.
Foam Info
Perform well but be sure to cut stems between nodes.
Design Tips
Carnations are extremely long-lasting and versatile in design use. In clusters or mixed with other flowers, they are available in every color imaginable. The ruffled texture adds a unique touch to any arrangement. This “all purpose” flower can add height or width to your floral creations. It is the perfect staple flower that you should always have on hand, and is good for single stem sales, consumer bunches, bud vase work or bouquet component. With the wide assortment of varieties and colors available, Carnations work with any color scheme. Because of its long vase life, always pair with flowers that enjoy similar characteristics.
Ethylene Sensitivity
Highly sensitive to ethylene. Ethylene accelerates petal wilting (sleepiness). Should be treated with an anti-ethylene product.
Pest & Disease Information
Flowers get infected with botrytis often. Use anti-botrytis products .
Troubleshooting
Premature petal wilting and discoloration due to no or incorrect use of anti-ethylene products. Botrytis damage on flowers. Calyx splitting is an occasional problem, which is sometimes reduced by wrapping flowers in the bud stage with tape. Stems can sometimes break easily at the nodes.
Product Usage
For optimal care of Carnation (Standard), please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.