Centaurea dealbata steenbergii (mealy centaury 'Steenbergii') — perennial

Overview

Centaurea dealbata steenbergii is a perennial in the genus Centaurea, part of the Asteraceae family. Centaurea dealbata steenbergii grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. Suggested uses include ornamental. It is native to Caucasus Mountains and Turkey.

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 dealbata steenbergii (mealy centaury 'Steenbergii') is a herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae originating from the Caucasus Mountains and Turkey. Gardeners value it as an ornamental for summer colour and it is often listed under common names such as cornflower or knapweed. The species habit and exact flower form vary by cultivar, but its principal use is to provide summer blooms in perennial schemes. Give this plant a sunny position and a freely draining soil; it requires full sun and moderate soil moisture. Heavy or waterlogged ground will reduce vigour, so improve drainage or choose a raised bed or gravelly area if your soil is clay. Regular watering through establishment is sensible, after which plants tolerate moderate soil moisture rather than constant wet. Use Centaurea dealbata steenbergii where a summer-flowering perennial is needed: mixed herbaceous borders, sunny beds and open sites where its blooms can be seen and supported by taller perennials if necessary. Flowers appear from June to September, providing an extended period of interest through the summer months.