Overview

Centaurea 'Jordy' is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Centaurea, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Centaurea 'Jordy' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, coastal and wildlife gardens.

About

Centaurea 'Jordy' is a herbaceous perennial that can reach heights of up to 60 cm. Its grey-green leaves provide a lush backdrop for the species. From late spring into early summer, this plant produces deep purple-red flowers that resemble thistles, featuring narrow, fringed petals on sturdy, upright stems.

About the genus

Centaurea includes annuals, perennials, and subshrubs, characterized by simple or pinnately lobed foliage and prominent flower heads resembling thistles, frequently featuring enlarged outer florets.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Centaurea

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Centaurea 'Jordy' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Centaurea 'Jordy'

Cultivation
Best grown in a moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
Pruning
Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering, and cut back in autumn
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Centaurea 'Jordy'?

Best grown in a moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.

Where is the best place to plant Centaurea 'Jordy'?

Centaurea 'Jordy' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Centaurea 'Jordy' need?

Centaurea 'Jordy' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

How do I prune Centaurea 'Jordy'?

Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering, and cut back in autumn.

How big does Centaurea 'Jordy' grow?

Centaurea 'Jordy' reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Centaurea 'Jordy' hardy in the UK?

Centaurea 'Jordy' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.

How do I propagate Centaurea 'Jordy'?

Propagate by division in spring or autumn.

Is Centaurea 'Jordy' good for pollinators?

Yes — Centaurea 'Jordy' attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.