Dianthus barbatus
Sweet William
- Height × spread
- 0.6m × 0.3m
- Position
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Colder than -20C (RHS H7)
- Flowers
- Summer
Availability
Generally available in Summer
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
This is an annual or a short-lived perennial. It has sturdy upright stems and, at their top, broad flat-topped clusters of flowers coloured in shades of red, white or pink. There are many bi-coloured forms available. The leaves are long and slender, rather-smooth looking. They are coloured dark green and sometimes are flushed purple. The species is a southern European native where it is found growing in mountainous areas. It is the parent of innumerable garden hybrids. It is summer flowering.
- Flower colour
- Pink, Red, White
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- Yes, spicy-cloves
- Shape
- Dome
- Height
- 0.6m
- Spread
- 0.3m
- Season of interest
- Summer
- Flowers in
- Summer
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Seaside garden, Exotic garden, Cottage garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Drainage
- Well drained soil, Dry soil, Drought resistant
- Hardiness
- Colder than -20C (RHS H7)
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Bedding plant, Bee attraction, Butterfly attraction
- Hazards
- Yes, potentially harmful; Humans: Skin allergen
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed with slow release fertiliser
Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water in dry periods
Established plants in the ground can cope with 7-10 days of dryness, and shrubs often manage 2 to 3 weeks. Water one section of the garden thoroughly each day rather than a little everywhere. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather.
Summer
Summer-Autumn · Planting
Support tall stems
The plant may require support for long stems. Provide an artificial frame which it can grow through, or loosely tie the whole plant. A network of twigs can be woven together to provide a framework through which the plant can grow.
Tall stems can lean or be battered by weather. Support the plant to keep its vertical lines, aiming for a natural appearance which is easy on the eye.
Planting & general
Planting
Deadhead blooms during flowering season
Remove flowers as they turn brown and fade. Snip the stem just below the bloom. This will keep the plant tidy and encourage more flowers.
The removal of spent flowers encourages the plant to produce fresh ones, rather than spend its energy on the development of seeds.
Planting
Support some varieties
Some plants within this species may require support for young plants and/or long stems. It is best to look up your specific plant for guidance, and/or check the label.
Compost · Planting
Multi-purpose compost
Use a good quality peat-free multi-purpose compost when growing in pots and containers.
Found in
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