This beautiful plant is absolutely loved by bees and butterflies. Ideal for cut flowers and self seeds so it will always be somewhere in the garden. A bushy upright habit with blue/green leaves and lovely silver, curving hoods with deep purple bells hanging like droplets. Hardy annual. Flowers May to September. Height 50cm. Full sun.
Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ is a stunning and low-maintenance plant known for its striking silvery-blue foliage and unique purple-bracted flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Ideal for borders, containers, and naturalised areas, this plant thrives when established. Follow this guide to ensure your Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ flourishes in your garden, whether in a sunny bed, mixed border, or container.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Time to Plant
Spring to Early Summer: Plant established Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ plants in spring or early summer once the risk of frost has passed. This gives the plant enough time to settle into the soil and establish roots before the peak growing season.
Secondary Option (Seed): If you prefer growing from seed, sow Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ seeds in late winter or early spring indoors, and transplant the seedlings once they have developed a few true leaves and the outdoor conditions are suitable.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure the location receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and flower production.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil, ideally sandy or loamy. If your soil is heavy or clay-based, enrich it with compost to improve drainage and aeration, ensuring the roots don’t sit in water.
Planting Instructions
Soil Preparation: Prior to planting, loosen the soil and mix in organic matter such as compost. This provides essential nutrients and ensures good root development for Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’.
Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the established plant. Place the plant into the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently with soil, firming it to remove any air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water the plant thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks to help the plant adjust.
Watering Requirements
Established Plants: Once your Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ is established, it is relatively drought-tolerant. Water deeply during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Newly Planted: For newly planted specimens, maintain consistent moisture until the plant establishes a strong root system.
Feeding
Early Growth: In the spring, apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser to established Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’. This provides the plant with a steady supply of nutrients for strong growth and vibrant blooms.
Mid-Summer: A light application of fertiliser during the blooming season helps encourage continued flower production and foliage health. Be cautious not to overfeed, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Deadheading and Maintenance
Deadheading: To extend the flowering period of Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’, remove spent flowers regularly. This not only promotes more blooms but also keeps the plant looking tidy.
Pruning: Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ is low-maintenance and doesn’t require much pruning. Simply remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain a neat appearance.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a light layer of mulch around the base of Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ in early spring. This will help retain soil moisture, prevent weeds, and regulate soil temperature as the plant grows.
Winter: In colder climates, mulch around the base of the plant in late autumn to protect the roots from frost. Use organic materials like bark or compost to provide additional insulation.
Companion Planting
Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ pairs beautifully with wildflowers, ornamental grasses, and other pollinator-friendly plants. Its unique silvery-blue foliage and striking purple flowers add texture and contrast to garden beds, making it a great addition to any mixed border or naturalized planting.
Final Tips
Self-Seeding: While primarily planted as an established specimen, Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ may self-seed under ideal conditions. If you want to encourage natural reseeding, avoid deadheading all the flowers.
Pollinator-Friendly: This plant is perfect for attracting bees and butterflies. By including Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ in your garden, you’re helping to create a pollinator-friendly space.
Container Gardening: If you’re growing Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ in containers, choose a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
By following these simple steps, your Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ will thrive, producing vibrant purple flowers and silvery-blue foliage throughout the growing season. Whether in the garden or in a container, this plant is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly addition to their outdoor spaces.
Select options 
Helen (verified owner) –
Jill A. (verified owner) –
Very happy, arrived already flowering with plenty of buds.