Bachelor's Button (Centaurea cyanus)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Annual

Bachelor's Button
Centaurea cyanus

 
Features
Good border plant with powder puff like flowers in blue, pink, red and white green foliage. Good cut flowers. 
 
Culture
Full sun and moist well drained soil 
 
Cultivars

'Florence Blue' 12-18 inches tall, blue flowers

'Garnet' 12-18 inches tall, dark burgundy flowers

'Snowman' 18-24 inches tall, white flowers

'Boy' series

'Sweet Sultan'

 
 
Mature Height
12-18 Inches
 
Size
Medium
 
 
Annual Hardiness Type
Hardy Annual
 
 
Bloom Color
Blue
Lavender
Pink
Red
White
 
 
Bloom Season
June - October
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Insect Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Aphids, stem rots, wilt diseases, rust
 
Additional Notes
Best used in the cutting garden as it tends to loose its attractiveness late in the season. Deadhead for more continuous bloom. May need staking.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic