Dianthus barbatus
sweet William
c aryophyllaceaeDense clusters of flowers atop green leaves
10–18 in. high; 12 in. wide
Full sun; tolerates part shade
Blooms May–June
Zones 3–9
pruning Cut back by a third to
half immediately after flowering and
before seed sets to get this biennial to
act perennial. Another route is to let it
go to seed and then enjoy the progeny.
Sweet William self-sows so easily that
it seems to be a perpetual in the
garden. May contract leaf spot under
conditions of high humidity, in which
case deadleaf and destroy affected
leaves. Do not prune for the winter,
although plants usually need cleanup
in the spring as some foliage gets
damaged with severe weather.
other maintenance Plants
require frequent division (every 2–3years) to ensure long life. Prefers
alkaline soil and cool summers.
related plantS Dianthus barbatus
‘Sooty’ is a favorite of mine, used
frequently due to its fragrant, dark
ruby (almost blood-colored) blooms
and red stems. It is a great cut flower
and grown as a biennial.Dianthus deltoides
maiden pink
c aryophyllaceaeRed, pink, or white flowers; mat-forming
foliage
6–10 in. high; 24 in. wide
Full sun
Blooms May–June
Zones 4–9
pruning Cut back by half after
flowering to keep plants from opening
up in the center. If done before seed
set, cutting back also will prevent
reseeding. You can grab a handful of
stems and cut with pruners or even oldDianthus barbatus ‘Sooty’