About

Centranthus lecoqii is a short-lived perennial often cultivated as an annual. It features slender stems and narrow, grey-green foliage. From early summer through early autumn, it produces branching clusters of small lilac-pink to lavender flowers.

About the genus

Centranthus can be either annuals or perennials, characterized by typically simple, opposite leaves and clusters of small, trumpet-shaped blooms arranged at the tips of the stems.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
Habit
Clump forming, Columnar upright
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
1-2 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Native to
Europe, N. Africa

Care notes

Cultivation
Prefers poor to moderately fertile, well drained, chalky or lime soil in full sun. Thrives in stony soil and will not tolerate winter wet
Pruning
Deadhead regularly
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in a cold frame in spring, or by division in early spring. Will self-seed freely
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free