Catananche caerulea, commonly known as Cupid's Dart, is a charming perennial that graces rock gardens with its delicate beauty. This hardy plant features striking blue to lavender flowers with darker centers, blooming on tall, slender stems that sway gracefully in the breeze. The blooms, resembling miniature daisies, appear from early summer to early fall, adding a continuous splash of color to your garden. The silvery-green foliage forms a neat, compact rosette that provides a lovely contrast to the vibrant flowers.
Native Habitat: Cupid's Dart is native to the rocky hillsides and dry meadows of the Mediterranean region, particularly in southern France and northern Spain. It thrives in well-drained soils and sunny locations, making it an ideal candidate for rock gardens, borders, and alpine gardens.
Growing Conditions:
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soils
Watering: Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately until established
Height: 12-24 inches
Spread: 12-18 inches
Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Care Tips:
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming.
Avoid over-watering to prevent root rot, especially in heavy soils.
Mulch with gravel or small stones to enhance drainage and maintain a natural look.
Uses in the Garden: Catananche caerulea is perfect for adding vertical interest and a pop of color to rock gardens. Its airy, upright habit makes it an excellent choice for planting among low-growing succulents and alpine plants. Additionally, its flowers are long-lasting when cut, making them ideal for fresh or dried floral arrangements.
Enhance your rock garden with the delicate charm and Mediterranean allure of Catananche caerulea, and enjoy its vibrant blooms and resilient nature throughout the growing season.
Catananche caerulea, commonly known as Cupid's Dart, is a charming perennial that graces rock gardens with its delicate beauty. This hardy plant features striking blue to lavender flowers with darker centers, blooming on tall, slender stems that sway gracefully in the breeze. The blooms, resembling miniature daisies, appear from early summer to early fall, adding a continuous splash of color to your garden. The silvery-green foliage forms a neat, compact rosette that provides a lovely contrast to the vibrant flowers.
Native Habitat: Cupid's Dart is native to the rocky hillsides and dry meadows of the Mediterranean region, particularly in southern France and northern Spain. It thrives in well-drained soils and sunny locations, making it an ideal candidate for rock gardens, borders, and alpine gardens.
Growing Conditions:
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soils
Watering: Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately until established
Height: 12-24 inches
Spread: 12-18 inches
Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Care Tips:
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming.
Avoid over-watering to prevent root rot, especially in heavy soils.
Mulch with gravel or small stones to enhance drainage and maintain a natural look.
Uses in the Garden: Catananche caerulea is perfect for adding vertical interest and a pop of color to rock gardens. Its airy, upright habit makes it an excellent choice for planting among low-growing succulents and alpine plants. Additionally, its flowers are long-lasting when cut, making them ideal for fresh or dried floral arrangements.
Enhance your rock garden with the delicate charm and Mediterranean allure of Catananche caerulea, and enjoy its vibrant blooms and resilient nature throughout the growing season.
