Cupids Dart. A perennial with clumps of grass-like, hairy green leaves. Single, bright cornflower blue flowers with dark centres. Height 60cm. Spread 30cm. Flowers July to September. Full sun. Hardy.
Catananche caerulea, commonly known as Cupid’s Dart, is a hardy perennial prized for its striking, bright blue flowers with dark centers. This sun-loving plant produces a profusion of blooms from midsummer to early autumn, adding charm to borders, gravel gardens, and wildflower meadows. Its clump-forming habit with grass-like foliage makes it an excellent choice for informal planting schemes.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Catananche caerulea is in spring when the soil starts to warm. This gives the roots time to establish before the summer flowering season.
Autumn: Planting in early autumn is also suitable, allowing the plant to settle before winter dormancy, ensuring strong growth in the following season.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Catananche caerulea thrives in full sun. Select a planting location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage prolific flowering.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Catananche. It prefers light, sandy, or loamy soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Adding grit or sand to heavier soils can improve drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but the same depth. This allows the roots of Catananche caerulea to spread easily.
Soil Preparation: Improve soil drainage and fertility by mixing in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Planting: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill and firm the soil around the roots.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root establishment.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Catananche is drought-tolerant once established. Water occasionally during dry spells, but avoid excessive watering, as overly wet conditions can cause root rot.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly in late autumn and winter, as the plant requires little moisture during dormancy.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage strong growth and an abundance of blooms.
Mid-Summer: A light feed during the flowering period can enhance the vibrancy of Catananche caerulea’s striking blue flowers.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to prolong blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
Autumn Pruning: Once flowering has finished, cut back foliage to ground level to prepare the plant for winter.
Mulching
Spring: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of Catananche caerulea helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Winter: A light mulch in colder months can protect the roots from frost, ensuring healthy regrowth in spring.
Supporting the Plant
Catananche caerulea generally has strong stems, but in exposed areas, consider light staking to prevent damage from wind.
Final Tips
Catananche caerulea is a low-maintenance perennial that adds striking color and texture to gardens. By planting in well-drained soil and a sunny location, and following this care routine, this Catananche will reward you with a stunning display of blue flowers throughout the summer. Incorporate it into your garden borders, rock gardens, or wildflower meadows for a touch of long-lasting beauty.
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