Dianthus monspessulanus is a hemicryptophyte scapose plant reaching on average 30–60 centimetres (12–24 in) of height. The stem is green, erect, glabrous and branched on the top, the leaves are opposite, simple, linear and sessile, more or less erect and flexuous, with a sheath embracing the stem. They are about 3 millimetres (0.12 in) wide and about 10 centimetres (3.9 in) long. The calyx is a green cylindrical tube about 2 centimetres (0.79 in) long, with reddish teeth. The flowers are hermaphrodite, single or gathered in scapes of 3–5 flowers, with 10 stamens. They have five pink or white petals, 10–15 millimetres (0.39–0.59 in) long, with fringed margins (hence the common name). The flowering period extends from May through August. The fruits are capsules with a few seeds.