<i>Dianthus barbatus</i> ‘Sooty’ | Sweet William ‘Sooty’
DESCRIPTION
Dianthus barbatus 'Sooty', commonly known as Sweet William 'Sooty', is a striking biennial or short-lived perennial prized for its unique dark foliage and rich, velvety flowers. This cultivar features almost black leaves and stems that create a dramatic contrast with its deep red to maroon flowers, which are about 1 inch in diameter and slightly fragrant, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Blooming from late spring to early summer, 'Sooty' offers a vibrant display for several weeks. Its lanceolate, dark purple to nearly black foliage provides a stunning backdrop for the bright flowers. This versatile plant is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers, making it a great addition to cottage gardens and mixed perennial beds, while also being an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements due to its long-lasting blooms.
DESCRIPTION
Dianthus barbatus 'Sooty', commonly known as Sweet William 'Sooty', is a striking biennial or short-lived perennial prized for its unique dark foliage and rich, velvety flowers. This cultivar features almost black leaves and stems that create a dramatic contrast with its deep red to maroon flowers, which are about 1 inch in diameter and slightly fragrant, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Blooming from late spring to early summer, 'Sooty' offers a vibrant display for several weeks. Its lanceolate, dark purple to nearly black foliage provides a stunning backdrop for the bright flowers. This versatile plant is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers, making it a great addition to cottage gardens and mixed perennial beds, while also being an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements due to its long-lasting blooms.
DESCRIPTION
Dianthus barbatus 'Sooty', commonly known as Sweet William 'Sooty', is a striking biennial or short-lived perennial prized for its unique dark foliage and rich, velvety flowers. This cultivar features almost black leaves and stems that create a dramatic contrast with its deep red to maroon flowers, which are about 1 inch in diameter and slightly fragrant, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Blooming from late spring to early summer, 'Sooty' offers a vibrant display for several weeks. Its lanceolate, dark purple to nearly black foliage provides a stunning backdrop for the bright flowers. This versatile plant is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers, making it a great addition to cottage gardens and mixed perennial beds, while also being an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements due to its long-lasting blooms.
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Family: Caryophyllaceae
Height: 12-18 inches
Width: 6-12 inches
Foliage Color: Dark purple to almost black
Flower Color: Deep red to maroon
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water Requirements: Moderate, prefers well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low
Growing Zones: USDA zones 3-9
Wildlife Attractors: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinatorsThis plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
