WSU Clark County Extension
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Sweet William

Scientific name: Dianthus barbatus
Taxonomy
Family:Caryophyllaceae
Type:Annuals and Biennials
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:3 to 9
Sun:Full to partial sun
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:2 ft
Width:1 ft
Bloom:Showy flowers
Bloom Time:May to September
Bloom Color:Pink
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description This is a short-lived perennial, that is perhaps best known and raised as a biennial (leaves the first year, bloom the second year). On the west sides of the Cascades dianthus often is treated as a perennial as the winters are so mild. Some of the newer cultivars will bloom the first year from seed if the seed is started early enough. It is used all through the garden in beds, borders, and on the patio in containers.

  Morphology:
The leaves are opposite, simple, mostly linear and often strongly glaucous grey-green to blue-green. The flowers have five petals, typically with a frilled margin, and are (in almost all species) pale to dark pink.

  Adaptation:
Sweet William prefers rich compost amended sites which are well drained. While it can tolerate full sun, most gardeners will plant it in partial shade in order to prolong the bloom and keep the plant looking better.

  Pests:
Watch for snails and slugs in shaded areas.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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