
Dianthus barbatus
Sweet William
$15
15cm Pot
Mature height:
30 - 50 cm
Mature width:
20 - 30 cm
A beloved, traditional short-lived perennial often grown as a biennial. Forms a neat rosette of lance-shaped green leaves, topped in late spring by dense, flat-topped clusters of pinwheel flowers. Blooms feature rich, multi-toned patterns of red, pink, purple, and white.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Rich, moist, fertile, Well-drained neutral-to-alkaline soil.
Sunlight
Full sun is essential for a dense habit and maximum flowering.
Flower
Fragrant fringed flowers in pink, red, white, and bicolour in spring.
Care & Maintenance
Dianthus barbatus is a classic, hardy, short-lived perennial that produces beautiful, fragrant, long-lasting floral displays.
• Plant in sunny, well-draining, fertile garden soil.
• Remove dead flower stems to encourage further blooms.
• Water regularly during dry spells in the summer.
• Hardy against frost and cold Central Otago winds.
Common Uses for
Dianthus barbatus
01
Cottage Border Edge
Adds a traditional, romantic, multi-coloured feel to front-of-border garden lines.
02
Fragrant Cut Flowers
Provides generous, sweet-scented floral stems for indoor spring bouquets.
03
Container colour
Packs sunny, high-end patio pots with a reliable, long-blooming floral cushion.
04
Pollinator Border
Fragrant nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to bees and beneficial insects.

Visit Us Today
We’re a local, onsite nursery located in Alexandra.
All plants are selected and purchased in person so you can see quality, size, and suitability before you buy.
38 Hawley Road, Earnscleugh, Alexandra
Opening Hours
You’re welcome to visit during our open hours, or arrange a time that suits you by appointment.
August - May:
Tue, Wed, Thu | 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
June - July:
By Appointment Only
