Cephalaria gigantea
A commanding perennial with a substantial mound of foliage at the base and tall, leafless stems that rise far above it. Pale yellow flowers are carried on a branching framework that gives the plant a light, transparent quality despite its height. Flowering in early summer, the skeletal structure remains visually engaging well beyond bloom, making it effective in both borders and meadow-style plantings where space allows.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun
Moisture: average
Soil: well-drained garden soils
Hardiness zone: 5
Maintenance: low
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 200
Spread (cm): 100
Habit: upright clump
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: June–July
Seasonal interest: early summer flowering; strong structural presence into winter
Foliage: green
Flower: yellow
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: moderate
Habitat: perennial borders; meadow-style plantings; back of border; open sites
Features: very tall stature; pale yellow flowers; leafless flowering stems; long structural interest
Notes: forms a substantial basal mound of foliage, with thick, robust, leafless stems rising well above; flowering stems branch repeatedly, creating a light, open framework that remains visually effective long after flowering; pale yellow flowers are held high and read clearly without heaviness