Dianthus barbatus

Dianthus barbatus is particularly popular as a cut flower due to a combination of beauty, longevity, and versatility. Both professional florists and hobby growers appreciate the plant for several qualities:
- long vase life
- sturdy flower stems
- abundant flower clusters
- wide range of colors
- pleasant fragrance
- combines well with other flowers
- high yield
- relatively easy to grow

Dianthus barbatus is not always strictly biennial, although it is usually grown and sold as such. In practice, the plant behaves in three different ways, depending on the variety, climate, and care:

• Biennial (most common)
  The classic form produces only leaves in the first year and forms flowers in the second year.
• Short-lived perennial
  Some plants continue to live for a few years after flowering and bloom again, especially in mild winters and well-drained soil.
• Annual flowering variety.
  Modern cultivars have been specially bred to bloom profusely in the first year.