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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Perennial cornflower
(Centaurea montana)
Also Known As
Perennial cornflower, Mountain bluebell, Bachelor's button, Cornflower
About This Plant
Centaurea montana is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a clump-forming plant that produces showy flowers in shades of blue, pink, and purple. The leaves are lance-shaped, hairy, and gray-green in color. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and easy care requirements.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
Light Requirements
Centaurea montana prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant may not flower as well.
Humidity Needs
It can tolerate a range of humidity levels, but it prefers moderate humidity.
Fertilizing Schedule
It does not require much fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and again in mid-summer if necessary.
Pruning Guidelines
Deadhead the flowers as they fade to encourage more blooms. Cut back the plant to the ground in the fall to prepare for winter.
Common Pests and Diseases
Centaurea montana is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust.
Indoor Size Range
12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
Watering Schedule
It prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often in hot weather.
Temperature Range
Centaurea montana can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -20°F (-29°C) to 100°F (38°C).
Growing Season
Centaurea montana blooms from late spring to early summer.
Growing Difficulty Level
Centaurea montana is easy to grow and care for. It is a good choice for beginner gardeners.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Centaurea montana is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Did You Know?
Centaurea montana is also known as perennial bachelor's button, which refers to the shape of its flowers that resemble the annual bachelor's button (Centaurea cyanus).
