Catananche caerulea produces violet-blue flowers with darker centres on slender, branching stems. A low clump of narrow leaves keeps the base unobtrusive while the blooms mingle easily with nearby plants. After flowering, silvery, papery seedheads extend the display and add interest to dried arrangements. It is usually a short-lived perennial, but its airy colour makes it well worth a place.
Growing conditions:
Grow in full sun in well-drained soil, avoiding rich, wet ground. Remove spent flowers for a tidier display or retain some seedheads for drying and seed collection.
Maximum size:
Approximately 50–90 cm tall and 30–50 cm wide.