This mysterious beauty bears 3-4" wide, funnel-shaped florets that are carried along one side of its robust stems, opening from the base. The deep maroon, velvety blooms are so dark, they appear almost black--save for a small, delicate, white stripe in midpetal. Tall enough to draw attention to the back of a border, the spectacular flower spikes are ideal for fresh-cut summer bouquets. The blooms attract pollinators but repel hungry deer and rabbits.[from brecks]

The deep maroon, velvety blooms are so dark, they appear almost black--save for a small, delicate, white stripe in midpetal. Tall enough to draw attention to the back of a border, the spectacular flower spikes are ideal for fresh-cut summer bouquets. The blooms attract pollinators but repel hungry deer and rabbits.[from brecks]