Sweet William
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Subkingdom: Tracheophyta (Vascular plants)
- Superdivision: Spermatophyta (Seed plants)
- Division: Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)
- Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
- Subclass: Caryophyllidae
- Order: Caryophyllales
- Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink family)
- Genus: Dianthus
- Species: D. barbatus
Common Names by Region
- United States: Sweet William
- United Kingdom: Sweet William
- France: Œillet de poète
- Germany: Bartnelke
- Italy: Garofano dei poeti
Description
- Growth Habit: Herbaceous biennial or short-lived perennial
- Size: Typically grows 15-60 cm (6-24 inches) tall
- Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped, dark green leaves arranged oppositely along the stems
- Flowers: Dense clusters of small, fringed flowers, often in shades of red, pink, white, or bi-colored, with a mild, sweet fragrance
Known Range
- Native Range: Southern Europe, particularly mountainous regions
- Cultivated Range: Widely grown in temperate zones worldwide for ornamental purposes
Care Requirements
- Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Watering: Moderate watering; avoid waterlogging
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH
- Humidity: Tolerant of average humidity levels
- Temperature: Thrives in cool to mild climates, ideal temperature range between 15°C-24°C (59°F-75°F)
- Propagation: By seed sown directly in the garden or started indoors; also propagated through cuttings
- Common Pests/Diseases: Susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot
Additional Notes
- Special Features: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; excellent as a cut flower for arrangements
- Maintenance Level: Low to moderate; deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming
Many of the flowering plants featured on our website are available through Nature Hills Nursery. Ordering them through this link will support the Cernunnos Foundation and your garden!
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