Cara Mia Centaurea Plant

Our Centaurea Cara Mia Bachelors Button Plant is a new hybrid with strong, upright stems and frilly bluish-pink blossoms emerging from fuzzy-looking, interesting, dark brown buds. Known to attract butterflies, you may also find this variety listed as Centaurea Carina Bachelor Buttons or Cornflower. Somewhat resembling a thistle, but without the barbs and invasive nature, the flower heads are strikingly beautiful, the darker colored center quills being lightly touched with white, while the more lightly colored outer petals form a wispy corona. Very pretty!

Our Centaurea Plants are grown with care, ensuring they are free from harmful pesticides and safe for your garden and the environment. Guaranteed to arrive alive and thriving!

Planting Instructions:

• - Can be planted spring, summer, or fall

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.5
• - Centaurea is adaptable and can thrive in poor to moderately fertile soils

Watering Specifics:

• - Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system
• - Once established, Centaurea is drought-tolerant and needs only occasional watering
• - Avoid overwatering, as Centaurea prefers dry to medium moisture levels

Fertilizer Type:

• - Typically does not require fertilization; Centaurea is a low-maintenance plant

Pruning and Training:

• - Cut back plants after flowering to promote a tidier appearance and potential rebloom
• - Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding

Additional Pest Management:

• - Generally pest-free, though Centaurea can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms from late spring to early summer, with a possible rebloom in fall
• - Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Light Requirements:

• - Can tolerate light shade, particularly in hotter climates, but flowering may be reduced

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Tolerates heat and drought; performs best in well-drained soils

Companion Plants for Centaurea:

• - Salvia: Their spikes of blue or purple flowers complement Centaurea's bright blooms
• - Echinacea: Their sturdy, upright growth and colorful blooms create a striking combination with Centaurea
• - Coreopsis: Adds a splash of yellow with its daisy-like flowers that contrast with Centaurea’s colors
• - Penstemon: Adds vertical interest with its spikes of tubular flowers
• - Ornamental Grasses: Their fine texture adds movement and structure to a Centaurea planting