Sweet William
Dianthus barbatus
Family: Caryophyllaceae
What it is like
A herb that will keep growing from year to year. The stem curve upwards to 25 cm high. The leaf blades are narrow and spoon shaped. They are 10 cm long and 2 cm wide. The flowers are in dense heads near the ends of the branches.
There are about 300 Dianthus species.
Where it is found
It is best in light to medium, well-drained soils. It needs an open sunny position. It is resistant to frost and drought.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, Austria, Balkans, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Europe (country/location of origin), France, Hawaii, Hungary, Indochina, Italy, Mediterranean, Myanmar, North America, Pacific, Pakistan, Poland, Romania, Russia, SE Asia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Türkiye, USA, Vietnam, Yugoslavia
How it is used for food
The flowers have a mild flavour and are used to garnish vegetables, fruit salads and other desserts.
Edible parts
Flowers, spice
How it is grown
It can be grown by seeds or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Brkati nageljček, Ponimo'i Li'ili'i