Catananche

Catananche (Cupid’s‑Dart) brings airy, papery daisy-like flowers in soft summer tones, paired with fine grey-green foliage that adds light, movement and texture. Its delicate blooms and decorative seedheads also attract pollinators, offering long-lasting seasonal interest.

Shop Catananche plants online

At J. Parker’s, our hardy, garden-ready Catananches include the striking sky-blue blooms and tidy clump habit of 'Major', the elegant white flowers and graceful stems of 'Alba', and more. Explore the selection for summer-to-autumn interest and cut- or dried-flower potential.

Where to plant Catananche

Catananche thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, such as sandy, chalky or light loams. It is hardy and low-maintenance, performing particularly well in temperate gardens, borders, gravel schemes and naturalistic plantings. Moderate moisture is ideal; waterlogged or heavy soils can shorten its lifespan. Once established, it is reasonably drought-tolerant and adapts to wildflower meadows or containers.

Companion plants for Catananche

We recommend pairing Catananche with sun-loving, drought-tolerant perennials that prefer lighter soils. Grasses such as Stipa, Sedum or Nepeta add movement and texture, while lavender and Achillea provide soft floral contrast. It also suits cottage or meadow-style plantings in sunny, well-drained conditions.

Growing Catananche

Plant in spring or early autumn in freely draining soil. Water only while establishing, then rely on its drought tolerance. Deadhead faded blooms to prolong flowering, or leave seedheads for decorative interest and self-sown seedlings. Treated as a biennial or allowed to self-seed, Catananche ensures ongoing presence. Cut back in late autumn or early spring to tidy and encourage new growth.