How to Grow Picotee
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Picotee
Dianthus chinensis var. heddewigii
flowerPicotee is a charming annual flower in the Dianthus family, characterized by delicate, frilly petals with contrasting colored edges or tips. The blooms are typically fragrant and come in shades of pink, red, white, and bicolor combinations. These compact, bushy plants produce prolific flowers throughout the growing season, making them excellent for borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements.
When should you plant Picotee in your zone?
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Example Picotee timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Picotee
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Picotee blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Picotee dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-10; performs best in cooler zones (4-7) but can be grown as a winter annual in warmer zones
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Get my Picotee timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
1-2 weeksTiny seeds germinate with two small cotyledons (seed leaves) visible within 7-14 days at 65-75°F
Maintain moist soil and provide bright light; keep humidity moderate to prevent damping-off; avoid overhead watering
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksSmall plants develop true leaves and establish a compact, bushy form with multiple stems branching from the base
Provide bright light (grow lights help); maintain consistent moisture; thin seedlings to proper spacing; pinch tops to encourage bushiness
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at the tips of stems; plant becomes fuller with visible flower clusters beginning to form
Continue regular watering and fertilizing every 2-3 weeks; deadhead any early flowers to promote more blooms; maintain proper spacing for air circulation
Flowering
6-10 weeks or longer with proper careAbundant, delicate frilly flowers with distinctive picotee edges bloom continuously in clusters; fragrant and vibrant
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend blooming; maintain consistent watering; fertilize every 2-3 weeks; provide adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues
Late Season/Decline
Variable depending on climateAs temperatures rise (in spring) or cool approaches (in fall), flowering may slow; plants may become leggy or show decline
Continue deadheading to maintain blooms; cut back plant by one-third to rejuvenate if needed; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; in cool zones, can bloom until frost
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or miticide if severe; improve humidity
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and
Remove debris; use slug baits; handpick; create barriers with diatomaceous earth
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil
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Remove affected flowers; use blue sticky traps; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap
Uses
Edible Garnish
CulinaryPicotee flowers are edible and make beautiful, fragrant garnishes for desserts, cakes, and gourmet dishes. They add a delicate, slightly spicy clove-like flavor to culinary creations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdPicotee flowers are excellent for fresh cut arrangements and bouquets, lasting 7-10 days in water. Their long stems and prolific blooms make them ideal for floral design and home decoration. [source]
Dried Flowers & Pressing
CraftThe delicate petals can be pressed for use in crafts, greeting cards, and botanical art projects. They also dry reasonably well for potpourri and craft applications. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifePicotee flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting garden ecosystems. Their fragrance and nectar make them valuable for wildlife gardens. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically, Dianthus species have been used in traditional medicine for their purported diuretic and tonic properties, though modern scientific validation is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when blooms are fully open but still fresh; remove lower leaves below the water line; change water every 2-3 days; deadhead spent flowers regularly on the plant to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Picotee' comes from the French 'piqûre,' meaning a small, delicate edging or border—perfectly describing the contrasting colored edges of the petals
- 🌱 Dianthus flowers have been cultivated for over 2,000 years and are native to Asia and Europe; the picotee form was developed through selective breeding in the 19th century
- 🌱 Picotee flowers are the national flower of Luxembourg and have been popular in European gardens since Victorian times as symbols of affection and beauty
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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