Wild and romantic mountain knapweeds fire the imagination for a natural garden design. This profile explains why this is so. Get to know the convincing attributes of the native perennial here, which, with undemanding care, is a pleasure for garden beginners and experts alike.

The beautiful mountain knapweed is native to us

Origin and characteristics - profile configured for hobby gardeners

The following profile tries to show the outstanding attributes of the mountain knapweed that are of interest to the hobby gardener. If data are known, such as origin, growth habit, location preferences and winter hardiness, the decision to include them in the planting plan is easier.

  • Asteraceae plant family
  • Name of the species: mountain knapweed (Centaurea montana or Cyanus montanus)
  • Distribution areas: in European mountains up to 2200 meters as well as in meadows and at the edges of forests
  • Growth habit: herbaceous, perennial flowering shrub with a height of 20 to 40 cm
  • Flowers: blue, white, violet fringed loose flowers
  • Flowering period: May to July
  • Leaves: lanceolate, green, entire, hairy
  • Winter hardiness: hardy to - 40 degrees Celsius, suitable for winter hardiness zone 3
  • Location preferences: sunny to semi-shady with fresh, moist, nutrient-rich soil
  • Use: beds with a wild perennial character, cottage garden, woodland border, borders, cut flowers

The mountain knapweed cannot deny its close relationship with cornflowers. The similarity is of course limited to appearance. In contrast to the annual cornflower, the mountain knapweed convinces with a robust winter hardiness and a wide range of location variants. The perennial surprises many mountain hikers with its blue flowers far above the tree line.

Beautiful varieties for more color variety in the bed

As the profile suggests, the color palette is not limited to the bright blue of the pure species. The high esteem in which mountain knapweed is held has prompted capable breeders to create the following varieties:

  • 'Jordy' inspires with purple to black flowers and filigree foliage
  • 'Alba' boasts pure white flake flowers which contrast beautifully with pure blue flowers
  • 'Carnea' features delicate pink flowers with a seductive scent of peach

Looking for a majestic mountain knapweed? Then we would like to recommend the impressive new breed 'Merel'. The flower stretches more than 60 cm towards the sky to present its crimson fringed petals.

tips

In the vase, mountain knapweed spreads rural flair in living rooms. In the early morning, cut those stems that have just opened their flowers. Leave about 10 cm of the flower stalk and the plant will sprout again.

Category:

Herbs