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Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) is a classic cottage garden favorite known for its fragrant, densely clustered blooms in rich shades of red, pink, white, and bi-colors. The vibrant flower heads sit atop sturdy stems, creating a bold display from late spring through early summer.
Growing 12–24 inches tall, Sweet William forms compact clumps of lance-shaped green foliage with rounded clusters of star-shaped flowers. The lightly spicy fragrance and bright colors attract bees and butterflies while making excellent cut flowers for fresh bouquets.
Typically grown as a biennial (flowering in its second year), it may also behave as a short-lived perennial in mild climates. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and performs beautifully in borders, cottage gardens, and mixed beds.
You will receive:
✔️ 100 Sweet William seeds
✔️ Botanical name: Dianthus barbatus
✔️ Open-pollinated seeds
✔️ Untreated, non-GMO seeds
✔️ Secure packaging
🌿 Growing Information
Common Name: Sweet William
Botanical Name: Dianthus barbatus
Plant Type: Biennial (sometimes short-lived perennial)
Growth Rate: Moderate
Mature Height: 12–24 inches
Spread: 10–14 inches
Sun: Full sun to light shade
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
Water: Moderate
USDA Zones: 3–9
Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Bloom Color: Red, pink, white, and bi-colors
💡 Ideal for cottage gardens, borders, containers, pollinator gardens, and cut flower arrangements.
🌱 Seed Germination Instructions
Sow outdoors in late spring or early summer for blooms the following year, or start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
Lightly cover seeds about 1/8 inch deep.
Keep soil evenly moist until germination.
Germination typically occurs within 7–14 days.
Sweet William – Dianthus barbatus Seeds | 100 Seeds | Fragrant Cottage Garden Flower | Biennial
$9.99