The Essential Guide To The Carnation
Botanical Name: Dianthus caryophyllus
Common Name: Carnation
General Knowledge: Carnations, with their scientific name Dianthus caryophyllus, originate from the Mediterranean region, showcasing their adaptability to various climate conditions. Traditionally, these flowers have been used for bouquets and floral arrangements, highly regarded for their longevity and varied colour palette. A fun fact about carnations is that they have a rich history in literature and culture, symbolising love and fascination, and they are even mentioned in Greek and Roman mythological texts, highlighting their long-standing presence and significance across different civilisations.
Colour Range: D. caryophyllus: Pure white, cream, yellows, gold, orange, tangerine, apricot, reds, palest to deep rosy-pink, magenta, mauve, purple, lime-green, khaki; many bi-colours.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Available year-round through greenhouse and field production, as well as imports.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Carnations are versatile and can be used in various floral arrangements including wedding bouquets, table centrepieces, and venue decorations. They are popular due to their long vase life and wide colour range.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, carnations are commercially grown in various regions of Australia.
Imported into Australia: While carnations are grown locally, some specific varieties might be imported to meet demand or for special orders.
Buying Tips: Look for flowers that are more than half to fully open. Avoid bunches with brown tips, markings, tight buds less than half open, or any signs of disease on leaves or stems.
Design Tips and Advice: Carnations are focal and transitional flowers that are very versatile for various designs. They are suitable for bunching, bowls, posies, wedding arrangements, and sympathy designs.
Flower Maturity: Choose blooms that are more than half to fully open for best results.
Expected Vase Life: Carnations have a long vase life, ranging from 8–20 days, depending on the cultivar.
Typical Stem Length: Varies according to cultivar. Sim and Spray carnations can be up to 80 cm, while Sweet William ranges from 40–50 cm.
Typical Bunch Size: 10 stems per bunch.
Floral Preservatives: Use floral preservatives to extend vase life.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Carnations are highly sensitive to ethylene. Ensure they have been treated with an anti-ethylene agent.
Temperature Requirements: Maintain cool storage at 2–4 °C.
Avoiding Potential Problems: Handle stems carefully to prevent snapping. Avoid ethylene exposure and ensure proper hydration.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Store at 2–4 °C, ensuring flowers are treated against ethylene.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Recut stems at an angle, remove submerged leaves, and use a hydrating solution for several hours at room temperature before transferring to a vase with flower food.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Ensure carnations are treated against ethylene and avoid exposure.