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Herbaceous Perennial

Centaurea 'John Coutts'

knapweed 'John Coutts'

'John Coutts' is a vigorous herbaceous perennial, with jagged lobed leaves white-felted beneath, and showy purplish-pink flower-heads 6cm across in summer and often into early autumn

Synonyms
Centaurea dealbata 'John Coutts'
Centaurea hypoleuca 'John Coutts'
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Pink Green Grey Silver
Autumn Pink Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Centaurea may be annuals, perennials or subshrubs, with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and showy thistle-like flowers-heads, often with enlarged outer florets

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Attractive to bees and butterflies

Propagation

Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in spring. Propagate by division in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Wildlife gardens
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Powdery mildews may occur

Get involved

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