Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' (Cupidone) — perennial herbaceous

Overview

Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Catananche, part of the Asteraceae family. Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and dried flower arrangements. It is native to Italy, Spain, Baleares, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Portugal and France.

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 'Bicolor' belongs to the daisy family and comes from Mediterranean regions such as Italy, Spain, Portugal and France. Its origins explain the plant's preference for warm, well-drained sites and a relatively sheltered situation free from strong, cold winds. Position in full sun and plant into soil that drains freely; free-draining gravelly or sandy loams suit it best. It tolerates dry to medium moisture levels, so avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. In UK terms the H5 hardiness rating means the plant is hardy in most gardens but performs best where winter wet is limited and roots stay reasonably free-draining. Use Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' at the front or middle of borders, in rock gardens or in a gravel patch where soil is lean. The open habit and flowering period from June to August make it useful alongside Mediterranean-type perennials and ornamental grasses. Cut flowerheads when they are just at peak and dry them upside-down in a cool, airy spot for long-lasting arrangements; removing spent stems after flowering helps tidy the clump and encourages fresh growth.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Catananche

Sunlight: full sun
Soil type: well-drained
Soil moisture: dry to medium
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial herbaceous
Suggested uses: borders, rock gardens, dried flower arrangements
Native to: Italy, Spain, Baleares, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Portugal, France

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil in full sun; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogging.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back after flowering to maintain shape.
Propagation: Seed, division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor'?

Prefers well-drained soil in full sun; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogging.

Where is the best place to plant Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor'?

Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' need?

Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.

How do I prune Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor'?

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back after flowering to maintain shape.

Is Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' hardy in the UK?

Catananche caerulea 'Bicolor' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.