Centaurea montana

Commonly called the Mountain Centaury, the Centaurea montana is a well-known hardy perennial. Its beautiful inflorescences are composed of magnificent fine and toothed petals in a deep blue shade, surrounding a pretty purple centre.  They continuously flower from mid-spring to mid-summer and are loved by both pollinating inspects and flower enthusiasts. Preferring fresh, fertile soils and a sunny position, it can also tolerate poor, limestone soils and occasional periods of drought.

This perennial cornflower or Centaurea montana is found in the wild in a large part of southern and central Europe. This herbaceous perennial with a rhizomatous base grows in meadows, but also at high altitudes in rocky terrain. It tends to spread by forming new clumps on the periphery and can become carpeting after a few years. Its deciduous foliage is a lovely silver-green colour. It is slightly hairy (especially on the underside).  The leaves are lanceolate and arranged alternately along the stem.  The plant forms a beautiful upright tuft 50 cm (20in) tall and 30 cm (12in) wide. The stems are often single and topped with an involucre made up of a collection of bracts.  It resembles a tiny green artichoke, still in bud, with black ciliated scales.  From May onwards (depending on the climate and exposure), beautiful deep blue flowers emerge until August, which have a intense violet centre. This particularly delicate and subtle ensemble offers enchanting colours in beds or bouquets.

Perfect for wild and romantic gardens, Centaurea montana also works well in more contemporary compositions. Its airy flowers, with dense colours and subtle patterns, are indeed very fashionable and blend well with many grasses. It can be planted into mixed borders, blue planting schemes and all flower beds, thanks to its versatile size.