Sweet William (Dianthus Barbatus) is a biennial herb in the Caryophyllaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets. It can be grown indoors.

Dianthus barbatus, commonly known as Sweet William, is a biennial or short-lived perennial prized for its colorful, fragrant flower clusters.

Sweet William

Sweet William

Dianthus Barbatus

Dianthus barbatus, commonly known as Sweet William, is a biennial or short-lived perennial prized for its colorful, fragrant flower clusters.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
biennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
3-9

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
👶
Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy, chalky
Indoor:Yes
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, cut flower, pollinator attractant

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Sweet William

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Sweet William
Sweet William detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Caryophyllaceae
Genus:Dianthus