The Deptford pink has declined rapidly in range and is now known to inhabit only about 15 sites in the UK, mainly in the south. It prefers light, sandy, acidic soils and requires open conditions to grow well. It can be found on disturbed ground, such as tracks and field edges, along hedgerows, and in dry pasture.
How to identify
The Deptford pink has a long flower stalk and deep pink petals that have delicate, pale spots and ragged edges. It has a rosette of green leaves at its base.
Did you know?
The Deptford pink was named by a 17th century naturalist, Thomas Johnson, who described a pink flower growing in Deptford in East London. It is highly likely, however, that he was actually describing its cousin, Maiden pink, and that the Deptford pink had not grown in the area since the city of London was built.
