Dianthus barbatus (Sweet William) is a biennial or short-lived perennial prized for its densely packed, flattened clusters of small flowers from late spring to the first frosts. Flowers may be single or double and come in a wide array of colors from white to dark red, often in bicolor combinations, sometimes with a contrasting eye and fringed petals. The vivid blossoms rise on stiff, erect stems above prostrate rosettes of wide, lance-shaped, pale to dark green leaves. No cottage garden would be without this old favorite, but it has a place in every garden.

• Growing up to 12-24 in. tall (30-60 cm) and 6-12 in. wide (15-30 cm), Sweet William will reseed each year in optimum growing conditions and remain in the garden.
• Performs best in full sun in organically rich, neutral to alkaline, well-drained soils. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates.
• Excellent choice for beds and borders, cottage gardens, edging or containers.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for aphids, slugs and caterpillars. Susceptible to crown rot and rust in poorly-drained soils. Deer resistant.
• Deadhead to extend flowering and to maintain plant vigor.
• Propagate by division, cuttings or by seed. Propagate by seed sown in late spring and plant out into flowering positions in the autumn. Divide in spring as new growth appears.
• Dianthus barbatus species is native to southern Europe.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.