Sweet-William flowers picture.

Sweet William 
Dianthus barbatus (Caryophyllaceae)

A perennial variety which usually performs as an annual. Native to Europe, it has escaped cultivation and adapted to all regions of the United States. The brilliant little flowers have fringed petals of red, pink, purple or violet. An ideal spring flower often blooming 60 to 90 days after planting under ideal environmental conditions. Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun. In areas having extremely hot summers, plant in partial shade for best results.

Average planting success with this species: 70%
Height: 12-18 inches
Germination: 14-30 days
Optimum soil temperature for germination: 60F-70F
Sowing depth: 1/16"
Blooming period: April-September
Average seeds per pound: 437,000
Seeds/Pkt: 650
Seeding rate: 6 lbs. per acre
1 oz Covers: 454 sq. ft.
Suggested use: Borders, mass plantings, meadows.
Miscellaneous: Very sweetly scented. Makes a nice cut flower with a vase life of 7 to 10 days.