UK Flowers: Herbs, Shrubs, Vines & Trees
UK Flowers

UK Sweet William

Herb Icon Cultivated Flower     Edible Symbol 
Image of Sweet William
Dianthus barbatus
Family: Caryophyllaceae

Flower Properties

Property Value
English Name Sweet William
Scientific Name Dianthus barbatus
MainColor Red
PlantType Herb Icon Herb
Distribution Cultivated Flower Cultivated
Season Found June (May - Aug)
ImageUrl Dianthus-006
Photographer DP
Location Found Kings Langley
Country Found UK
Last Updated 12 September 2026
Photo Quality A

Flower Details

Description

Sweet William is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant, known for its clusters of small, brightly coloured flowers. The flowers typically bloom in shades of red, pink, white, and purple, often with a contrasting eye. The plant grows to a height of 30–75 cm and has lance-shaped leaves.

Distribution

Native to southern Europe, Sweet William is widely cultivated in temperate regions across the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.

Medicinal/Other Uses

— No significant medicinal uses.

Edibility Edible Symbol  

Edible - flowers can be used as a garnish or in salads, adding a mild clove-like flavour.

Human Toxicity
Non_Toxic

Non Toxic - generally safe for human handling and consumption in small quantities.

Pet Toxicity Pet Toxicity

Non Toxic - safe for cats and dogs, with no known toxic effects.

Active Compounds

Kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin.

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