Catananche Cupids Dart RHS Seeds

Catananche Cupids Dart RHS Seeds - Irish Plants Direct

 

Catananche caerulea 'Cupid’s Dart' is a delightful and elegant perennial known for its charming, delicate blue and white flowers that resemble miniature asters. This variety is a favourite among gardeners for its ability to create a soft, romantic atmosphere in the garden with its airy, star-shaped blooms.

 

The name Catananche is derived from the Greek word katananche, which means "sharp flower," referring to the plant's sharp-edged petals. Cupid’s Dart is particularly appreciated for its unique appearance and long-lasting flowers, which are perfect for cutting and bringing a touch of the outdoors inside.

 

This compact, hardy perennial reaches a height of 45 - 60 cm and is perfect for borders, wildflower meadows, or container plantings. It thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil and prefers full sun, where it can develop its vibrant flowers from summer into autumn. Catananche Cupids Dart is also highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a wonderful addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

 

Recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities, Catananche Cupids Dart is part of the RHS Seed Scheme, ensuring you receive high-quality seeds for guaranteed garden success.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 125

 

Sow: February - April (indoors) or April - May (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; slightly acidic to neutral pH

Height: 45 - 60 cm

Flowering: June - September

Companion Plants: Cornflowers, Echinacea, Achillea

Avoid Planting With: Heavy-feeding plants

 

Catananche Cupids Dart is low-maintenance once established. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering after its roots are well-established. Deadheading spent flowers encourages additional blooming, and the plant’s long-lasting flowers make it ideal for use in fresh or dried floral arrangements.

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from February to March. Lightly cover the seeds with compost and maintain a temperature of 18-21°C. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared, weed-free soil from April to May. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing to allow healthy growth.

 

With its beautiful blue and white blooms and easy-care nature, Catananche Cupids Dart is perfect for creating a soft, romantic look in flower beds, wildflower meadows, or as part of a cutting garden. Its long-lasting flowers will bring lasting colour to your garden, while supporting pollinators.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range