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 Wilson’s ‘Plus Perfect’

For generic information on the garden Carnation and Picotee see Dianthus caryophyllus L.  Wilson’s ‘Plus Perfect’ is a light edged purple picotee, probably introduced in 1841.  [Gard. Chron. 1841].  ‘A great favourite with many, being above the average size, with a fine broad and pure petal; its slightly serrated edge will always prove a serious drawback.’  [Gard. Chron. 1846].  ‘This is a very beautiful Picotee, of the purple light-edged class. the white is of uncommon brilliance, and the lacing entirely confined to the edges of the petals.’  [FC p.218/1842].  ‘Light-edged, purple picotee: pod good and large; petals large and broad, but a little serrated; ground pure; edging fine and very distinct.’  [FC p.79/1849].  ‘An old flower, but a good one; the edging light and delicate, white good, rather difficult to increase, as its habit is not robust.’  [BF p.220/1844].

Horticultural & Botanical History

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 - 03:07 PM | Last updated Aug 26, 2011 - 12:56 PM

Family Caryophyllaceae
Category
Region of origin

Garden origin, probably England

Synonyms
Common Name

Florists’ Picotee

Name in the Camden Park Record

Picotee Wilson’s ‘Plus Perfect’

Confidence level high