Flower-Plant ID Needed, Please

[Boron Elgar]

This grew up in one of my pots. I do not know what it is. I did not plant it. Whatever it is, it found its way into and overwintered in the pot.

It is rather cute and I am more than happy to nurture it, assuming it isn't some invasive weed, but I have never seen it before.

This is the plant. The upright stalks are about 8 inches tall. Dark green and purple. (that's my favorite rhodie in the background, just coming into bloom)

is the blossom head, about an inch across. As you can see, there are multiple flower buds on it.

is one of the flowers - about half inch across and white.

[Julie]

Looks like a Dianthus to me:

[Pat Kiewicz]

there

Most definitely some sort of Dianthus -- common name, "pinks" from the jagged edges of the petals. (Think "pinking shears" rather than color. Pinks most often are some shade of pink, and color was most likely named after the flower.)

[Boron Elgar]

Thanks to you and Julie.

I am used to dianthus with longer, more slender leaves and single flowers, rather than this. A new variety to me.

Now I am curious as to how it got into the flower pot, as I have had no dianthus of any sort in the yard for a few years, and certainly not this variety. Fortuitous seeding, whatever it is, as the plant looks lovely in bloom.

Boron

[janet]

Looks like sweet william to me.

Janet