Dianthus Barbatus Nigrescens-Black Sweet William. This clump forming plant can be grown as a short-lived perennial or an annual. The plant grows erect and hardy with flowers that are such a sumptuous deep rich red, they actually look black! The foliage starts out as green and pointy, then turns bronze-like at maturity. Bloom time is from spring to late summer and can be started indoors late in winter to transplant in spring and have flowers in its first season, and fortunately, have a second round of blooms. These jaw dropping beauties are very unique and an eye-catcher that would bring a touch of class to any place they are. The petals can be eaten and are used in salads and garnishes. It is a self sower and can be deadheaded if desired or allow seeding for another season of beauty. To ensure the plant's vigor, it is recommended to divide every 2-3 years and give adequate spacing for sufficient air flow to prevent leaf disease.
 
          40+  seed per pack    
 
Planting Zone: 3 – 9
 
Full Sun
 
Height: 1.5 feet
 
Width: 9 inches - 12 inches
 
Attracts Hummingbirds, Butterflies, Bees
 
Great for cutting: cut when flower is half open
 
Edible: petals can be used as garnishes or in salads
 
Does great in containers
 
Drought tolerant, but bloom their best with moisture
 
Resistant to Deer and Rabbit
 
I urge anyone buying seed to do their homework on germination, I have not raised and cannot raise many of these plants as I am sub-tropics here in St Augustine, Florida. All seed are NOT alike!  There are so many different factors in germination and not doing a search is throwing your money away. I want everyone to be successful when growing your flowers from seed it is the most rewarding experience in Gardening and you can do it, if you give the seed what it needs to grow. I always check 3 sites of info to choose how I will go about it. It is not hard to do, if you do it right!
SEED GERMINATION TIP!!!!!!!
ONLY GERMINATE A SMALL PORTION AT A TIME.
DON'T PUT ALL YOUR MONKEYS IN A BARREL.
Good Luck and Happy Planting!!!!