You'll love the dark chocolate blooms of this delightfully different Dianthus! Unlike other Sweet ...You'll love the dark chocolate blooms of this delightfully different Dianthus! Unlike other Sweet Williams, 'Sooty' boasts big, fragrant, maroon-brown blooms up to 7cm (2½in) borne on red stems. The fabulous flowers are complemented by mid-green foliage, which matures to metallic mahogany. Often grown as a biennial, this short-lived perennial is ideal for cottage garden borders, flower beds and container growing, or as a cut flower for your home. Height: 30cm. Spread: 30cm. Position: Full Sun. Height: Up to 38cm when fully established. Spread: Up to 30cm when fully established. Supplied as 1x Dianthus barbatus nigrescens 'Sooty' seed packet (approx. 30 seeds). Sow: April to June. Flowering period: May to June. Images shown are for guidance only of the expected results from plants upon maturity. Different growing conditions might vary results.
This seed packet is for gardeners seeking a unique and fragrant Dianthus variety for borders, beds, or containers. The 'Sooty' Dianthus offers large, dark maroon-brown blooms with a delightful chocolate aroma, a striking contrast to traditional Sweet Williams, but its short-lived perennial nature means it may require replanting or succession sowing for continuous display.
All features
Model Part Number
23879
Brand
Thompson & Morgan
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the main difference between 'Sooty' Dianthus and other Sweet Williams?
The primary difference is the unique dark maroon-brown bloom color and its specific fragrance, often described as having dark chocolate notes, unlike the brighter colors and traditional clove-like scent of most Sweet Williams.
How many seeds are in a packet?
Each packet contains approximately 30 seeds.
Can I grow this in a shady spot?
No, Dianthus Nigrescens 'Sooty' requires full sun to perform well. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
When is the best time to sow the seeds?
The recommended sowing period is from April to June.
What is the expected height and spread of the plant?
The plant typically reaches a height and spread of around 30cm (approximately 12 inches) when fully established.
Is this a perennial plant?
It is often grown as a biennial or is considered a short-lived perennial, meaning it may only last for 2-3 years. For continuous display, successive sowing is recommended.
Can I use the flowers for cutting?
Yes, the large, fragrant blooms are excellent for cutting and using in home arrangements.
Troubleshooting
Seeds not germinating
Ensure seeds are sown at the correct depth, the compost is kept moist but not waterlogged, and the temperature is consistently warm (15-20°C). Try a different batch of compost or consider chilling the seeds before sowing for a few days if germination is erratic.
Plants are leggy and have few flowers
This usually indicates insufficient light. Ensure the plants are in a position that receives full sun for at least 6 hours a day. Also, ensure adequate spacing to prevent overcrowding.
Poor bloom color or size
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight and has good drainage. Overly wet conditions or lack of nutrients can also affect bloom quality. A balanced feed might help.
Plant appears weak or dies back quickly
Dianthus 'Sooty' is a short-lived perennial. If your plant dies back after the first year, this is normal behavior. Consider sowing new seeds for the following year or replanting the existing plants as biennials.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Unusual and eye-catching dark bloom color.
Strong, pleasant fragrance.
Attractive foliage that changes color.
Compact size suitable for various garden spaces.
Good for cut flower arrangements.
Cons
Short-lived perennial; may need replacing.
Requires full sun to perform best.
Results can vary based on growing conditions.
Seed germination can be variable.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Seeds:
Sow seeds from April to June in trays or pots filled with a good quality seed compost.
Cover seeds lightly with compost or fine grit.
Maintain a temperature of 15-20°C (60-68°F).
Once seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out and transplant them into individual pots.
Grow on in cooler conditions before planting out into their final positions after the risk of frost has passed.
Planting Out:
Position: Full Sun. This variety requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive and produce the best blooms.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Amend heavy clay soils with grit or compost to improve drainage.
Spacing: Plant approximately 30cm apart to allow for full growth.
Care:
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil does not become waterlogged.
Feeding: A light feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer in spring can be beneficial.
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent the plant from setting seed prematurely.
Overwintering: As a short-lived perennial, it may benefit from winter protection in colder climates, such as a layer of mulch around the base. Successional sowing is recommended for continuous flowering.