Flower Library
Carnations
Dianthus caryophyllus · Caryophyllaceae
Carnations have a bad reputation — undeservedly. Modern varieties come in subtle gradients and lush double blooms, and they last up to three weeks in a vase. The longest vase life of any common cut flower.
- Season
- Year-round
- Vase life
- 10–21 days
- Latin name
- Dianthus caryophyllus
- Colors
- White, Pink, Red, Bordeaux, Purple, Yellow, Peach, Green, Bicolor
There are standard carnations (one large bloom per stem) and spray carnations (multiple smaller flowers branching). Spray is much more popular in modern bouquets — feels more natural and fills well.
Premium varieties like ‘Mondiale’, ‘Antigua’ or Japanese strains have ruffled, fringed petals reminiscent of peonies. That’s earned carnations a place in modern wedding floristry.
Is Carnations toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Non-toxic
- Cats
- Mildly irritating
- Dogs
- Mildly irritating
Mildly toxic to cats and dogs. The triterpenoid saponins irritate the stomach and gut — vomiting, diarrhoea and drooling are possible, with mild dermatitis on skin contact. Usually harmless, but keep the vase out of reach.
Typical symptoms: Mild gastrointestinal upset with vomiting, diarrhoea and drooling; mild dermatitis on skin contact.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut stems at an angle, strip lower leaves.
- 02Change water every 3–4 days — very tough.
- 03Avoid cutting through the visible nodes on the stem.
- 04Handle warmth better than most cut flowers.
Frequently asked
- Are carnations outdated?
- The old standard carnations in red and pink can read that way. Modern spray carnations in soft tones are a florist favorite — especially in wedding floristry.
- How long do carnations last in a vase?
- Carnations last 10 to 21 days — the longest vase life of any common cut flower. With a fresh cut and a water change every 3–4 days they reliably reach the upper end of that range.
- Are carnations toxic to cats and dogs?
- Yes, carnations are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. The saponins they contain can cause gastrointestinal irritation with vomiting, diarrhoea or drooling if eaten, and skin contact may trigger mild dermatitis. It is rarely life-threatening, but it is safer to keep the vase out of reach.