Centaurea orientalis
A clump-forming centaurea with narrow, dark green foliage and softly coloured flowers held on branched, upright stems. Pale yellow blooms emerge from honey-toned, papery bracts through summer, giving the plant a light, dry-garden character. Native to the Balkan steppes, it has proven reliable over many seasons and remains well contained, making it an easy choice for sunny borders.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun
Moisture: average
Soil: well-drained garden soils
Hardiness zone: 5
Maintenance: low
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 70
Spread (cm): 45
Habit: upright clump
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: June–Aug
Seasonal interest: summer flowering
Foliage: dark green
Flower: yellow
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: moderate
Habitat: sunny borders; mixed perennial plantings; open sites
Features: pale yellow flowers; clump-forming; branched flowering stems; well-behaved habit
Notes: a Balkan species native to steppe conditions; forms neat clumps with narrow leaves; sturdy stems branch toward the tips, carrying multiple papery bracts from which pale yellow flowers emerge;