LIFE CYCLE
Annual
PLANT CHARACTERISTICS
Delicate pink flowers
GROWTH HABIT
Upright slender
BLOOM SEASON
Spring summer
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Bitter
SUITABLE FOR
Outdoor
SEED TYPE
Open Pollinated
PLANT TYPE
Flowering Herb
PLANTING SEASON
Spring
FRUIT SIZE
Not applicable
PLANT HEIGHT
30–60 cm
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full Sun
WATER NEEDS
Moderate
HARDINESS ZONES
Annual plant
CONTAINER GARDEN
Yes
PLANT SPACING
20–30 cm
PLANTING DEPTH
Surface sow
GROWING CONDITIONS
Well drained soil
Frequently Asked Questions
Is centaury the same plant as cornflower (Centaurea)?
Is centaury the same plant as cornflower (Centaurea)?
No, despite the similar-sounding name, centaury (Centaurium) is a different genus from cornflower (Centaurea), with distinct appearance and uses.
Has centaury traditionally been used in herbal preparations?
Has centaury traditionally been used in herbal preparations?
Yes, it has a long folk history as a bitter herb, though this listing is sold purely as a garden plant without medicinal claims or usage guidance.
What do centaury's flowers typically look like?
What do centaury's flowers typically look like?
It produces small, star-shaped pink flowers clustered atop slender upright stems.
What growing conditions does centaury prefer?
What growing conditions does centaury prefer?
It generally favors well-drained soil in full sun, often naturalizing in meadow-like or herb garden settings.
Is centaury suited to a dedicated herb garden bed?
Is centaury suited to a dedicated herb garden bed?
Yes, its compact size and historical herbal reputation make it a fitting addition to themed herbal or wildflower plantings.
Do pollinators visit centaury's small blooms?
Do pollinators visit centaury's small blooms?
Yes, its flowers attract small bees and other pollinating insects during the summer bloom period.