Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Asteraceae

Genus:

Catananche

Species:

Catananche caerulea

USDA Symbol:

CACA94

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

90 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun,jul,aug

Bloom Colors:

blue, lavender

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, butterflies

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

poor, sandy, well-drained soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to Mediterranean regions; prefers dry conditions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

None required

Germination Time:

14–21 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate readily at 65-70°F with light. Short-lived perennial, often treated as biennial.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI