Care to take a guess at what this is?

If you guessed some type of moss then I’m sorry but you’re wrong.  If you’ve read my previous blogs on bromeliads and guessed some type of tillandsia then I’m sorry but you’re still wrong (extra points for doing your research though!).

It is in fact a variety of carnation called Green Trick (Dianthus barbatus ‘Green Trick’).  If you’re having a hard time seeing the carnation in this flower then bear in mind that the common name for Dianthus barbatus is Sweet William (yes those cute old fashioned biennials your grandmother probably grew). Starting to see a resemblance now?

I first saw this flower in a florists a couple of years ago.  Instantly I was in love with its pompom lime green flowers and wanted to grow it.  Unfortunately I had to wait until it was released for sale to the general public earlier this year (see here for my previous blog).

And now I’m happy to report that Green Trick has been growing extremely well for me.  In less than three months it’s put on stacks of growth and produced over 10 very large flower heads.  They’re almost the size of tennis balls! All from a plant that I bought in a 5cm wide pot in August. I’ve been very impressed.  Of course it could be a sign that it’s a shortlived plant so I’ve taken some cuttings.

Here’s one last photo in case you still need convincing that Green Trick belongs in the carnation family.  With those long stems and distinctive leaves there’s no denying it’s heritage.

I just love it!

PS Don’t forget to check out The Plant Addict Shop while you’re here. 

You’ll find great gift ideas for garden lovers and fellow plant addicts!