Origin and characteristics - profile configured for hobby gardeners
The following profile endeavors to highlight the outstanding attributes of the mountainKnapweed that are of interest to the hobby gardener. If data is known, such as origin, growth habit, location preferences and winter hardiness, it is easier to decide whether to include it in the planting plan.
- 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 on the edges of forests
- Growth form: herbaceous, perennial flowering plant with a growth 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 up to - 40 degrees Celsius, suitable for winter hardiness zone 3
- Location preferences: sunny to partially shaded with fresh, moist, nutrient-rich soil
- Use: beds with a wild shrub character, Cottage garden, Shrub edge, borders, cut flower
also read
- Caring for the mountain knapweed made easy - this is how it works
- Knapweed: It comes to life in the right place
- The meadow knapweed is edible - tips for use
The mountain knapweed cannot deny its close relationship with cornflowers. The similarity is limited to the appearance. In contrast to the annual Cornflower The mountain knapweed impresses with its robust winter hardiness and a wide variety of locations. The perennial surprises many mountain hikers with its blue flowers far above the tree line.
Nice varieties for a greater variety of colors in the bed
As the profile suggests, the color palette is not limited to the bright blue of the pure kind. The high level of appreciation for mountain knapweed has prompted capable growers to create the following varieties:
- 'Jordy' inspires with purple to black flowers and filigree leaves
- 'Alba' boasts pure white flaky flowers that contrast wonderfully with blue flowers of the pure kind
- 'Carnea' sets the scene with delicate pink flowers that smell seductively of peach
Are you looking for a majestic mountain knapweed? Then we would like to recommend the impressive new breed 'Merel' to you. The flower stretches more than 60 cm towards the sky to present its purple fringed blossoms.
Tips
In the vase, mountain knapweeds spread a rural flair in living rooms. Early in the morning, cut the stems whose flowers have just opened. If you leave about 10 cm of the flower stalk, the plant will sprout again.
