Overview
Cephalaria procera is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Cephalaria, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Cephalaria procera grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, cut flowers and flower borders and beds.
About
Cephalaria procera is a deciduous, columnar upright perennial cultivar within the Cephalaria genus, known for its pinnately divided foliage and flower heads similar to scabious. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, preferring moist but well-drained conditions. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is suitable for a range of garden aspects and exposures. This cultivar is valued for its interest during summer and autumn, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens, cut flowers, and flower borders.
About the genus
Cephalaria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caprifoliaceae. It includes 102 species native to southern Europe, western and central Asia, and northern and southern Africa.
Wikipedia contributors, "Cephalaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cephalaria
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cephalaria
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Cephalaria procera size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Cut flowers, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cephalaria procera
- Propagation
- Seed sown in pots in a cold frame in early spring, Division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cephalaria procera?
Cephalaria procera prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Cephalaria procera need?
Cephalaria procera 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.
Is Cephalaria procera hardy in the UK?
Cephalaria procera has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Cephalaria procera?
Seed sown in pots in a cold frame in early spring, Division in spring.
