The 2006 perennial plant of the year

Flowers bloom in mid to late spring. They may begin in March in Georgia and May in Vermont, and continue for several weeks. One of the attractions of 'Firewitch' is its longer bloom than many similar cultivars (cultivated varieties). In longer seasons they may even rebloom in late summer into fall.

This plant grows best in full sun and well-drained soils. It will tolerate part shade, but perhaps not bloom as well. A rock garden or raised bed is ideal. If soils are acidic, lime might be added to raise the pH. If too hot and dry, leaves will not be as lush and fewer flowers may be produced. Although plants will tolerate short dry periods, plan on watering if a long period of drought.

This dianthus is quite hardy, growing in USDA zones 3 through 8. In the coldest climates, add a light layer of mulch, such as from evergreen boughs, to protect the leaves. Remove any mulch as soon as any snow melts in spring to prevent crown rot disease. It is bothered by few pests, and is deer resistant.

As with other perennial plants of the year, this one is low maintenance. If they need pruning to keep to a certain size, leaves may be trimmed in very early spring, or after the first bloom. They also may be divided in early spring if needed, just as new growth is beginning. Division every three to five years may help keep plants vigorous, as they tend to be short-lived otherwise. Plants may also be propagated by rooting terminal cuttings (those from the ends of shoots).