Overview
Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba' is a perennial in the genus Centaurea, part of the Asteraceae family. Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. It is native to Greece.
About the genus
Centaurea is a genus of over 700 species of herbaceous thistle-like flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. Members of the genus are found only north of the equator, mostly in the Eastern Hemisphere; the Middle East and surrounding regions are particularly species-rich.
Wikipedia contributors, "Centaurea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Centaurea
In the garden
Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba' belongs to the Asteraceae and originates from Greece. As a perennial in the Centaurea genus it reliably produces a season of summer flowers, with the main display running from June to September, reflecting its Mediterranean background. Plant in full sun on well-drained soil; a free-draining, moderately moist mix suits it best and it dislikes waterlogged ground. Position it in a sunny aspect where soil dries between waterings. Routine maintenance is limited to removing spent stems and avoiding heavy, compacted soils that retain moisture. In a UK garden it suits sunny herbaceous borders, gravel gardens and Mediterranean-style plantings where summer colour is required. Pair with other sun-loving perennials on free-draining soil to reflect the species' native conditions. For best effect, place it where its extended flowering period from June to September can be appreciated and where winter wet is minimal, since prolonged waterlogging will stress the plant.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Centaurea
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moderate
Plant details
Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Native to
- Greece
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba'
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba'?
Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba' prefers full sun.
What soil does Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba' need?
Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba' grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I propagate Centaurea atropurpurea 'Alba'?
Seed, division.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Centaurea genus
- Centaurea 'John Coutts'
- Centaurea cyanus 'Mauve Ball'Cornflower
- Centaurea dealbata steenbergiimealy centaury 'Steenbergii'
- Centaurea hypoleucaCornflower
- Centaurea hypoleuca 'John Coutts'Cornflower
- Centaurea montana 'Alba'white perennial cornflower
- Centaurea montana 'Parham Variety'Cornflower
- Centaurea montana 'Parham'Perennial Cornflower
