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Herbaceous Perennial
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Pink | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- 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
Best grown in moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; may need staking
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Coastal
- Wildlife gardens
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead regularly, and cut back after first flush, to prolong flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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