Deptford Pink
Dianthus armeria
- Shouting for attention -
This little flower is easy to overlook when rambling through the countryside. However, during peak summer months, Deptford pinks' tiny little blossoms shout for attention. These small blossoms top out at about only a half inch in diameter.
Deptford pinks can be found in poor, rocky soil throughout much of the United States despite not being native to the continent (nor invasive). Deptford pinks are named for a district of London where they once supposedly grew abundantly. (The 17th century herbalist Thomas Johnson mistakenly identified maiden pinks which did grow abundantly in London.) Despite being well rooted in North America and parts of the European continent, Deptford pinks are considered endangered throughout the British Isles. The plant is a part of Plantlife's Back from the Brink project and The Wildlife Trusts' preservation efforts. Let us hope that these vibrant little blossoms will once again grace the English countryside as they now do ours.
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