Centaurea atropurpurea
very dark purple knapweed
A clump-forming perennial to 1m with deeply divided, grey-green leaves. The deep red flowers emerge from bronze-coloured, scaly buds on strong stems in summer
Synonyms
Centaurea atropurpureaCentaurea benoistii misapplied
see moreCheirolophus benoistii misapplied
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Grey Silver | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Bronze Red | Grey Silver | ||
Autumn | Grey Silver | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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
Correct
- Plant range
- C Balk., Romania
How to grow
Cultivation
Any well-drained soil in full sun; good drought resistance. A fairly dry, poor soil is best as plants can be invasive if soil is rich and moist
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or propagate by division in spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Rock garden
- Patio and container plants
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be affected by powdery mildews
Get involved
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