Dianthus barbatus 'Raspberry' (Dart Series)
sweet william
Often grown as an annual but naturally a short-lived perennial, this reliable sweet william thrives in well-drained soil, copes well...
Plant description
Growing into tidy, upright clumps with narrow green foliage, Dianthus barbatus 'Raspberry' produces rounded clusters of velvety, finely fringed blooms in deep raspberry-red shades that stand out beautifully against surrounding planting.
The compact habit makes it an excellent choice for the front of sunny borders, patio containers and cottage-style gardens, where it adds strong colour without taking up much space. Sweetly scented flowers also make lovely additions to cut flower displays, bringing both fragrance and long-lasting colour indoors.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Average
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Dianthus barbatus Raspberry (Dart Series):
Once plants are established, apply a mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds in plants that are in border settings. Water during dry spells, especially in free-draining soils or containers. Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4-6 weeks through the growing season to encourage strong growth and plenty of blooms.
Cut flowers regularly for the vase, as this encourages more stems to develop, or deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering. In colder areas, protect young plants over winter with a light mulch or fleece.
Warning
GOES WELL WITH
June Week 1
If you do nothing else...water new plants. Make sure new additions do not suffer during dry spells. Plant up summer containers bedding once the threat of frosts has passed. Feed container plants about six weeks after planting. If it’s a nice day...trim he
Read full articlePlant up summer containers
After the last frost date, plant up containers with tender flowering bedding and reliable foliage plants. Line terracotta pots with polythene, taking care not to cover the planting holes, to reduce water loss through the porous sides of the pot.
Read full article