Mountain Knapweed

Centaurea montana alba

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: well-drained, moist soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This perennial cultivar of the annual cornflower has shaggy white flowers with reddish violet centres that are twice the size of the native species. It flowers from May to July and has lance-shaped, mid-green leaves. It looks particularly good with old cottage garden favourites such as lupins and catmint, or with grasses. An excellent plant for the middle of a well-drained, sunny border.
  
  
• Garden care: Stake with brushwood or bamboo canes before the flowers appear. Cut back to the ground after flowering and a second flush may appear. Lift and divide large clumps every three years in spring.