Spray Carnation
Spray Carnation is a cut-flower form of Dianthus caryophyllus that produces multiple smaller blooms on each stem. In postharvest references, miniature carnations are also called spray carnations. This type is valued for texture and branching, which helps fill mixed bouquets without needing many stems. Outdoors, it can be grown like other carnations, but top results still come from cool conditions and sharp drainage. In hot climates, flowering quality often drops and plants may struggle through midsummer. Spray types are usually harvested when at least one flower per stem is open for best retail quality.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Spray (miniature) cut carnation type
- Height × spread: 18-48 in (45-120 cm) × 6-12 in (15-30 cm)
- Bloom window: summer outdoors; year-round under glass (varies by climate)
- Color & flower form: multiple smaller double to semi-double blooms per stem
- Fragrance: 0-1 (varies by cultivar)
- USDA hardiness: 6a-9b (often grown as an annual outside these zones)
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown / varies by cultivar; species origin Mediterranean region
- Cut-flower notes: mixed bud stages per stem can complicate uniform opening; keep hydrated
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Several blooms develop on one stem instead of a single head.
- Harvest and display quality depends on having some open flowers on each stem.
- Stems can be lighter, so support and gentle handling matter more.
- Bouquet “coverage” is higher per stem compared with standard carnations.
Strengths
- High floral density per stem for arrangements.
- Great filler and texture in wedding and mixed designs.
- Longer display interest because buds continue opening.
- Useful for smaller vases and compact bouquets.
Care in one minute
- Grow in full sun with airflow, and use light shade only in extreme heat.
- Use rich but well-drained soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Water regularly, and avoid letting plants dry hard between irrigations.
- Pinch early to encourage branching, and stake if stems lean.
- Deadhead to extend bloom outdoors.
- In most regions, treat as a seasonal plant unless winters are mild.
Watch‑outs
- Buds may open unevenly if hydration is inconsistent.
- Ethylene exposure still causes rapid petal decline.
- Dense clusters can trap moisture, raising botrytis risk.
- Weak stems can kink if transported dry or overheated.
Best uses (tags)
cutting, bouquets, wedding flowers, mixed arrangements, greenhouse
Provenance note
Extension and postharvest sources describe miniature carnations as “spray carnations,” reflecting the multi-bloom stem structure that defines this class in the cut-flower trade.
References
- UC Davis Postharvest Research and Extension Center. Carnation, Miniature Carnation.
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Dianthus caryophyllus.
- ASPCA. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants (Dianthus).
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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