Centaurea bella (origin Caucasus and synonymous with Psephellus bellus) is a compact perennial native to the mountainous regions of Europe, stands out for its dense, mat-forming habit and vivid pinkish-purple flower heads. Ideal for rock gardens and sunny borders, this drought-tolerant species offers prolonged summer flowering and a neat, silvery foliage that maintains ornamental interest even after blooming.
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The characteristics of Centaurea bella
Centaurea bella is a dwarf perennial species within the Asteraceae family, valued for its tidy, mound-forming growth and finely cut silvery foliage. Reaching only 20 cm in height, it produces abundant pink to magenta blooms with fringed petals, highly attractive to pollinators. Its alpine origins make it well-adapted to dry, well-drained soils, ensuring excellent heat and frost resistance for ornamental landscaping.
How to use Centaurea bella ?
Thanks to its compact size and ornamental foliage, Centaurea bella is ideal for rock gardens, border edges, alpine beds, and containers. It works well in combination with other drought-tolerant perennials such as Lavandula and Erysimum. Its mat-forming growth can also be used for low ground cover in sunny spots. The plant’s prolonged summer flowering brings vibrant colour to minimalist or naturalistic garden designs.
Cultivation guidelines for Centaurea bella
Plant Centaurea bella in well-drained, moderately fertile soil, ideally with a gritty or sandy texture to mimic its alpine habitat. Space plants 25–30 cm apart to allow full cushion development. Water moderately during establishment, then only in prolonged droughts. Avoid heavy soils to prevent root rot. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain compactness. Apply a light spring fertiliser to boost flowering and foliage density.
