Centaurea atropurpurea
A tall, clump-forming centaurea with sturdy flowering stems held above finely divided foliage. Dark red, thistle-like flowers appear in early summer, emerging from neatly formed buds and giving the plant a strong vertical accent. Native to rocky slopes of the western Balkans, it is best suited to open, sunny sites with good drainage, where it remains contained rather than spreading.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun
Moisture: average to dry
Soil: well-drained; rocky or gravelly soils
Hardiness zone: 4
Maintenance: low
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 120
Spread (cm): 60
Habit: upright clump
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: June–July
Seasonal interest: early summer flowering
Foliage: green
Flower: red
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: moderate
Habitat: perennial borders; dry gardens; gravelly slopes; naturalistic plantings
Features: upright habit; clump-forming; dark red thistle-like flowers; strong vertical presence
Notes: a Balkan species forming strictly clumping plants; tall, sturdy stems rise above finely divided foliage; dark brownish-red thistle-like flowers emerge from well-shaped buds; suited to open, sunny positions