The Perennial Plant Association has named Dianthus gratianopolitanus ‘Firewitch’ as the Perennial Plant of the Year for 2006. This species of Cheddar Pinks, native to Cheddar Gorge, in England, is being praised for its spicy clove scented flowers.
Firewitch produces showy, profuse, single, upward facing, shocking magenta-pink blooms. The blooms are produced above silvery-blue evergreen foliage on seven to eight inch tall and twelve to eighteen inch wide mats. They bloom heaviest in late spring or early summer and often rebloom in early fall if deadheaded. It is hardy in zones four to eight and is a moderate to fast grower. It is an excellent plant for in front of the flower border, edgings, rock garden, containers or scent gardens because of its relatively short height and strong fragrance. It may also be grown in difficult sites such as stone walls.
The blooms are said to be excellent for cutting and will even dry for later use. Firewitch attracts butterflies because of the delicious nectar. Once established the plant is said to be deer resistant.

Dianthus grows best in loose, well drained, and neutral to slightly alkaline soils. Avoid areas with poor drainage where crowns remain wet during winter. They like full sun or part shade. The foliage will not be as lush and there will be fewer flowers if grown in hot, dry areas. Regular watering during prolonged dry spells is necessary. Although they are tolerant of short periods of drought and high humidity.
In the fall a thorough clean up is needed to prevent pest and disease problems. A layer of mulch protects the evergreen foliage. When the weather begins to warm up all mulch should be removed to prevent crown rot.