Description
Dianthus barbatus | Black Sweet William ‘Sooty’
Black Sweet William, also known as Black-bordered Sweet William, is a biennial or perennial flower with quite the array of features. Notably first is the burgundy-green foliage, then a collection of spiky, burgundy flower heads. Then, one by one, buds began to open into rich burgundy-velvet flowers, nearly black in the right light, with contrasting lighter centers, which creates a bold visual impact when planted in groups and/or interspersed with yellow-leaved plants.
Grows well with part sun, part shade, even moisture, and low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in rich and well-drained soil.
Verticillium wilt resistant.
Makes a great cut flower.
Type: Biennial or short-lived perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Mature height: 12-18 inches
Mature width: 10-20 inches
Hardiness zones: 3-9
