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We're getting ready for the new year!

We have been busy packing our favorite flower seeds and gearing up for another amazing year. Stay tuned for back in stock seeds and plants for 2025 plus over 75 new varieties!

Cornflower 'Perennial Butterfly'
Cornflower 'Perennial Butterfly'
Cornflower 'Perennial Butterfly'
Seed Packet

Cornflower 'Perennial Butterfly'

Centaurea scabiosa
This summer-blooming perennial takes center stage in the world of important bee and butterfly plants. The vibrant violet thistle-like flowers are rich with nectar and pollen and adorn casual borders and meadow plantings with their fringed flowers. Native to Europe, where it is often called greater knapweed, it is a well-behaved member of the Centaurea genus. Lime-enriched soil suits it best.
SKU #S852
$3.25
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
75
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
4,
5,
6,
7,
8
Mature Size
3' h x 1.5' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Summer
Color
Violet purple lace-like flowers
Features
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Beneficial Insects
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1/4-1/2"
Sprout Time:
7-20 days
Starting Indoors:
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out. Keep at 55-70°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in early spring.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Greater knapweed will naturalize in sunny meadows or add a wildflower ambiance to cottage gardens with its relaxed habit and free flowering ways. Native to Europe, it is an important plant for bees and butterflies. Tolerant of varied soil and moisture conditions. Lime-enriched soil suits it best.
Final Spacing:
1.5-2'
Water Requirements:
Low Water Use
Watering Details:
Water during dry spells.
Soil pH:
Prefers more alkaline soils. Add lime or wood ash if soil is acidic.
Fertilizer:
If soil is poor, mix in about 1/2" of compost or an organic granular fertilizer in springtime.
Diseases & Pests:
Avoid fungal troubles by placing in a location that has good air circulation.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when the flowers are just open.