Dusty Miller provides soft gray, almost white leaves that help show off other plants. In addition to those with bold, white leaves, look for the fine, feathery varieties that offer a more subtle contrast. Dusty miller does its best in full sun but will tolerate light shade too. Most varieties grow 8-12 inches tall. Dianthus Annual dianthus are the cold-tolerant cousins of carnations and pinks.
Flowers can be single or double and the delicate petals are often fringed.
They tend to do their best very early in the season and fade as the summer gets hot, just like pansies. Annual dianthus can be pink, white, pale purple or rosy red. They are slightly fragrant. Grow dianthus where they will get lots of strong light and in well-drained soil. Impatiens are the queen of the shade annuals.