Classification of Carnations - flowers and flower bulbs

Carnations are broadly classified into four groups namely

(i) Border and Picotee (ii) Chabaud or Marguerite (iii) Malmaison (iv) Perpetual flowering.

(i) Border and Picotee: Border Carnations are the earliest type, easiest to grow and have symmetrical flowers. These are dwarf and hardy perennials, produce single stem during the first year and become bushy in the subsequent years. They are classified according to the colour pattern of the petals such as Bizarres, Flakes, Fancies, Picotees and Selfs.

(ii) Chabaud or Marguerite: These are annual Carnations having clove- scented single or double flowers and propagated by seeds. The blooms are large with fringed petals, which do not last very long in vase. They are comparatively easier to culture than the perpetual type.

(iii) Malmaison: Plants of malmaison are stiffer and have broad leaves, giving a massive appearance. Flowers are large, double with well- filled centres, fragrant and generally have a pink shade. The buds are rounded with short calyx.

(iv) Perpetual flowering: These are hybrids involving many Dianthus species. They produce flowers round the year. Flowering stems are longer and have the ability to withstand long distance transportation, which makes them suitable for cut flowers. They are grouped into standard and spray type.