Centaurea Montana (Cornflower)

Centaurea montana, commonly known as Perennial Cornflower or Mountain Cornflower, is a hardy, spreading flowering perennial grown for its striking blue flowers and attractive foliage. It is an excellent choice for cottage gardens, flower borders, wildlife gardens, rockeries and naturalistic planting.

This rhizomatous perennial forms a low, spreading mat of green foliage, with leaves that can be simple or lobed and have a soft, hairy texture beneath. From late spring into summer, upright stems carry large flower heads around 5cm across, with vibrant blue outer petals surrounding reddish-purple centres.

Growing to approximately 45cm in height, it is particularly useful towards the front or middle of a border, where its spreading habit can help fill gaps between other plants. It also works well planted in groups for a stronger display of blue summer colour.

Plant in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Once established, it is a hardy and relatively low-maintenance perennial, making it a good choice for informal and wildlife-friendly planting.

The nectar-rich flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects, while the long-lasting blooms can also be used as cut flowers.