One of the most exquisitely patterned Garden Pinks, 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus is also one of the most fragrant. The fully double blooms are stacked several layers high, displaying their lacy white edges and rich, deep red (nearly black) petals to full effect. You will love this evergreen biennial 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus in the garden and container.

These neat, carefree 12-inch plants bloom all summer in cool and northern climates. Elsewhere, they may begin sooner (mid- to late spring) and rest during summer, only to repeat in autumn if 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus are sheared back promptly after the first wave of spring blooms. This Garden Pink is one tough customer, ready to flower its best in just about any setting.

The first thing you will love about 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus is its fragrance. The aroma is usually described as reminiscent of cloves, and there is a definite spicy-and-sweet mix. Allspice, cloves, perhaps a hint of nutmeg—the whole combination may remind you of apple pies. And of course these 2-inch blooms are lovely for cutting, either as a small bouquet for the breakfast nook or a decoration for the lapel or buttonhole.

Try to plant 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus where you can sample its fragrance and admire its beauty up close. Containers of all kinds are the perfect spot to show off this plant, but 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus also makes a big impression as edging, in the front of the foundation, or near garden paths.

Deer leave this dianthus alone, but hummingbirds adore 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus. And once 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus finds its feet in your garden, 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus is very tolerant of soil issues—heavy clay soils and dry soils are no problem. As long as the drainage is good, this China Pink will put up with a lot of imperfections.

Start 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus seeds indoors in late winter or in the garden after danger of frost. Dianthus likes full sun in the north, dappled or part shade farther south and west. 'Velvet 'n Lace' Dianthus may melt out in summer in hot climates, but will continue to bloom for months where it is content.