(Centaurea Americana) What an astonishing surprise this one was! Growing absurdly tall to 7’, they really piqued our curiosity when the buds began to form. Incredible latticework buds like botanical filigree followed by creamy white blossoms opening into large (5-6” across) fluffy blooms. Think bachelors buttons, which they share a genus with, but on an enormous scale. Hold great for 4-5 days in a vase as well as drying beautifully in either flower or spent bloom phases. The fragrance is lightly sweet and adds to the grandeur of these towering beauties.
90-100 days. UO

Packet: 50 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost.

Transplant out after last frost.

May direct seed after last frost.

Note: Cold hardy to light frosts.

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/8"

SPACING:

16" between plants in rows 15-18" apart.

EMERGENCE:

14-21 days @ soil temp 60-70F

LIGHT:

Full sun to part shade.

FERTILITY:

Average. Grow in all soils although well-drained and evenly moist soil is preferred.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

At upwards of 7' tall, these benefit from support to keep them upright and tidy.

Attracts pollinators!

Deadhead to extend the season.

Fresh or dried flowers/seed-heads.

Harvest flowers when 1/4-1/3 open and expect a vase life of 5+ days.

Basket Flower, 'Aloha Blanca'