Flower ID needed please

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by wysiwyg, Jun 1, 2006.

  1. wysiwyg

    wysiwyg Member

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    Location:
    Waukesha, WI
    I've been watching this grow all spring on the border of our woods. At first I thought it was just another weed until it began flowering. I've spread various wildflower seeds in the area but I'm definitely not familiar with this one. What's particularily interesting is that the different clusters of plants have differently colored flowers - from almost white light-pink, to dark red. The tallest plants are about 3 feet. There are similar plants nearby but with smaller leaves and not nearly as tall, which makes me think it might be a biennial. Any help in ID'ing would be greatly appreciated!
     

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  2. Margaret

    Margaret Active Member 10 Years

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    Location:
    Sunshine Coast, B C Canada
    The common name is sweet william which, I believe, is related to carnations and pinks and hence the lovely perfume. One of my favourite cottage garden flowers!
    Margaret
     
  3. chowntown

    chowntown Active Member

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    Location:
    Victoria, BC, Canada
    Dianthus barbatus aka Sweet William - Biennial often grown as an annual
     
  4. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Location:
    WA USA (Z8)
    Can also be perennial, I think.
     
  5. wysiwyg

    wysiwyg Member

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    Location:
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    Thanks!! It is a really great flower and I hope it will spread. I'm getting tired of pulling out garlic mustard!
     

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