About

Catananche caerulea 'Alba' is a short-lived herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae that bears white, papery daisy-like flowerheads. It produces a basal rosette of softly hairy, grey-green leaves from which erect, branched flowering stems rise. Flowering runs June to August and the heads are commonly used in dried arrangements.

About the genus

Catananche is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It is native to dry meadows in the Mediterranean region.

Wikipedia contributors, "Catananche", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Catananche

In the garden

Catananche caerulea 'Alba' belongs to the daisy family and traces its origins to the Mediterranean region. Plants form a basal rosette of woolly, grey-green leaves; from that rosette one or a few strongly branched flowering stems develop, carrying the white, papery heads that give the plant its ornamental value. Place this cultivar where conditions reflect its native climate — a warm, well-drained spot that receives plenty of light will best express the leaf texture and keep the stems upright. It behaves as a short-lived perennial, producing its main display in summer: expect blooms from June to August. The papery nature of the flowerheads means they hold up well once cut. Use Catananche caerulea 'Alba' at the front or middle of sunny borders, on gravel or in mixed dried arrangements. Allow heads to mature on the plant until they begin to dry, or cut stems when almost fully open, then hang or wire for drying; the bracts retain shape and form attractive dried specimens specific to this species and cultivar.

More in the Catananche genus

• 
  Catananche caeruleablue-flowered Cupid's dart
• 
  Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor'Cupidone
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  Catananche caerulea 'Major'Cupid's dart 'Major'
• 
  Catananche caerulea 'Perry's White'Cupid's Dart
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  Catananche caespitosa