Deptford Pink

Deptford Pink
Deptford Pink. Dianthus armeria.
Caryophyllaceae, the pink family.

Description:
Plant: Erect, slightly hairy plant 6"-24" high with narrow leaves and small clusters of bright pink, white-spotted flowers. Perennial.
Flowers: Bright pink with small white spots, about 1/2" wide, five oval petals, five acutely pointed sepals, subtended by pointed bracts. Flowers in a tight cluster ([[cyme]]) opening a few at a time.
Leaves: Opposite, linear, 1"-4" long, basal leaves slightly broader than stem leaves.
Fruit: A four-valved capsule.
Blooming: June-September
Habitat: Weedy spots, meadows.

Comments: The common name of this European introduction refers to Deptford England, now part of London, where the flower was supposedly once abundant.

Where to find it: Along the wood boundary on the east edge of the pond running south of the shelter; also In the upper meadow near the forest trail exit.