*Our stock is low this year (2025), so we will hold off offering Dancing Geisha until we do a grow out summer 2026. And hopefully have seeds for fall 2026. We will leave this page up for reference.
Here is the stunning Dianthus isensis. It’s English name is ‘Dancing Geisha’. This flower makes you appreciate that the translation of Dianthus is ‘Flower of the Gods’.
It is a showstopper in our garden!
Dancing Geisha is an heirloom Dianthus developed in the Edo period in Japan (1603 to 1868). Information from the ‘Encyclopedia of Horticultural Plants’ (Japanese edition, edited by Tsukamoto Yutaro; info via www.nio.sakura.ne.jp) states it was created by a samurai from the Kishu region who lived in Matsusaka. It’s names in Japan include: Ise Dianthus, Satsuma Dianthus, Osaka Dianthus, and Gosho Dianthus.
Dianthus isensis has beautiful spider-like flowers in pink, white, red and purple. The large, drooping petals (10 cm+) sway and dance in the wind. It has a mild fragrance.
Despite its otherworldly appearance, Dianthus isensis is easy to start from seed and easy to take care of. Amazingly, it blooms the first year from seed.
Dancing Geisha is 30cm to 50cm (11″ to 20″) tall and does well in a container. If planted in the garden, it is perennial down to Zone 5.
How to Plant: Start indoors beginning of March or earlier for first year flowers. Press small seeds into soil and barely cover with soil. Keep soil moistened and place container in a warm place. A heat mat helps to keep soil warm. Once seedlings are up, place under lights/in a sunny place. Transplant outside after danger of frost is passed.
Location: Sun
Life cycle: Perennial Zone 5 and up (or grow as an Annual)
Height: 30cm to 50cm (11″to 20″)
Container Friendly
