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Dianthus barbatus 'Summer Sundae' (Sweet William)

Dianthus barbatus 'Summer Sundae' Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Dianthus barbatus 'Summer Sundae' dy-ANN-thus bar-BAT-us Common Name: Sweet William Genus: Dianthus
'Summer Sundae' Sweet William is a nice mix of red, pink, and white flowers held in rounded groups at the tops of stems. Plants bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are lightly fragrant. Use in a cottage garden or border, or in containers. It flowers the first year from seed.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Biennial that flowers in the first year from seed. A mix of reds, pinks, and white. Lightly fragrant.
 Care: Grow in full sun and well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Will not tolerate standing water in winter. Organic mulches may encourage fungal diseases. Deadhead regularly. Provide a break from afternoon sun in hot climates.
 Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame from autumn to early spring, or sow in situ in summer to flower the following year.
 Problems: Slugs, sow bugs, grasshoppers, chipmunks, squirrels, and deer commonly cause problems. Blister beetles are problematic in the West, while fungal diseases are prevalent in humid regions and poorly drained soils.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 6 in. to 12 in.
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Adaptable
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Fragrant Flowers; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Early Summer; Late Spring; Spring; Summer
Flower Color Pink Flower; Red Flower; White Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower
Style Cottage Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest
Type Annuals

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