This hardy, clump-forming, short-lived
perennial hails from dry meadows and mountain heights in
the Mediterranean regions. They have linear, grasslike,
grayish-green leaves up to 10 inches in length, with a finely
hairy surface. Beginning in early summer, they produce solitary,
pinwheel-shaped flowers up to 2 inches across that are a
lovely lilac color with pronounced dark centers. C. caerulea
'Bicolor' has pure white petals with contrasting purple
centers. The flowering continues well into the fall.
Plant in well-drained soil as plants will be short-lived
in heavy soils. Prefers full sun but will handle light shade.
Catananche is easy to start from seed and will flower the
first year if started in late winter. By its second year,
it can become a sizable clump 2 feet tall with loads of
long-lasting flowers. It is very cold-hardy because of its
subalpine adaptations and is drought tolerant once established.
Even better, catananche is long-lasting as a cut flower
and has interesting papery bracts at the base of the flowers
that dry well. To dry flowers, pick when they are first
showing color and before they totally open. Tie in bunches
and hang in a cool, well-ventilated area.
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