Sweet William: Your Ultimate Flower Guide

Sweet Williams are an old-fashioned cottage garden favourite, their sweet scent and pretty fringed petals reminiscent of summers past. We're here to show you all things you maybe didn't know about them! With this ultimate flower guide on Sweet Williams, you'll be a pro in no time.

Sweet William Facts & Origins

Part of the dianthus family, Sweet Williams have been a popular British garden plant since the 16th century.

The earliest recorded reference to them appears in the garden catalogue of botanist John Gerard in 1598.

However, despite being seen as a quintessentially British summer flower, Sweet Williams have their origins in southern Europe and parts of Asia.

Scientific name: Dianthus Barbatus

Common name: Sweet William

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Availability: April-June

Vase life: Approx. 5-10 days Colour range: A cheerful mix of purple, pink, burgundy, lilac and white.

The Meaning of Sweet William

According to the Victorian language of flowers, Sweet Williams signify gallantry.

It can be of no surprise therefore that the Duchess of Cambridge chose to include the white Sweet William in her wedding bouquet in 2011 – in honour of her own gallant Prince, no doubt.

Types of Sweet William

Like many other flowers, there are a great variety of Sweet William flowers out there. See some of the most popular ones below.

Sweet William Care Tips

1. Rinse the stems under cold water and cut 2-3cm from the bottom.
2. Fill a clean vase full of fresh water and add your flower food as directed on the packet.
3. Remove all foliage below the water line and change water every day, re-cutting the stems each time.
4. Keep out of direct heat sources to prolong vase life.
5. Change the water completely every 2-3 days and ensure water levels are topped up in between as sweet williams are thirsty flowers

Note: Cut stems between the nodes for maximum water uptake.

For the Home

Sweet Williams are mainly used by florists in mixed bouquets as opposed to being the focal flower in an arrangement.

They work particularly well with other summer blooms such as peonies and stocks, adding texture and scent to displays. Achieve a natural country look by arranging Sweet Williams with Alchemilla mollis and astrantia.

For Brides

Sweet Williams aren’t a commonly used wedding flower but have seen a resurgence in popularity since the Duchess of Cambridge chose to include them in her wedding bouquet to Prince William in 2011. Sweet Williams are also a good choice for brides who want to use British grown flowers, as they are widely available in the summer months.