Notice

Colin Mills, compiler of the Hortus Camdenensis, died in late November 2012 after a short illness. As he always considered the Hortus his legacy, it is his family's intention to keep the site running in perpetuity. It will not, however, be updated in the near future.

Dianthus caryophyllus Tolworthy’s ‘Isabella’

For generic information on the garden Carnation and Picotee see Dianthus caryophyllus L.  Tolworthy’s ‘Isabella’ is a light edged red picotee.  ‘The ground colour (is) good, edged (and) feathered with a peculiar dark crimson, a new variety of good proportions.’  [Gard. Chron. 1846].  ‘Light-edged, red picotee: pod only middling; petals pretty good; ground good; edging distinct, and well feathered with dark red.’  [FC p.78/1849].

Horticultural & Botanical History

At least one other picotee was named ‘Isobella’ at this time, Wildman’s ‘Isabella’: ‘Heavy-edged, red picotee: pod good; petals well formed; ground very clear; edging very regular, and of a deep red or maroon.  This is a very good flower of its class in the old sorts, and may in general be depended upon.’  [FC p.78/1849].

For further information on the Victorian Picotee see Dianthus caryophyllus Mathew’s ‘Ne Plus Ultra’.

History at Camden Park

In October 1849 a large consignment of plants was sent by Veitch and Sons, Exeter, to J. C. Bidwill at Camden Park.  The consignment included named Carnations and Picotees, the present plant included.  [MP A2943].

Notes

Published Apr 12, 2009 - 12:27 PM | Last updated Aug 26, 2011 - 03:05 PM

Family Caryophyllaceae
Category
Region of origin

Garden origin, England

Synonyms
Common Name

Florists’ Picotee

Name in the Camden Park Record

Picotee Tolworthy’s ‘Isabella’

Confidence level high