Sweet William

Dianthus barbatus

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Earthy & Warmclovespice

SeasonSpring–Summer

OriginSouthern Europe

IntensityModerate

LifespanBiennial

About This Flower

Earthy & Warm · Spring–Summer bloomer

Sweet William produces dense domed clusters of fragrant flowers in rich velvets and bicolours, carrying the spicy clove scent of its dianthus relatives in a more complex, bittersweet blend.

Symbolism & Meaning

gallantry, finesse, childhood

In the Victorian language of flowers, sweet william means “Grant me one smile”.

Habitat & Environment

Southern Europe

Sweet William is native to Southern Europe.

Quick Reference

Scientific NameDianthus barbatus
FamilyCaryophyllaceae
Native ToSouthern Europe
Bloom SeasonSpring–Summer
LifespanBiennial

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