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Description
Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball, commonly known as black cornflower, is an annual flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. The plant produces a single stem that can reach a height of up to 90 centimeters. It has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 15 centimeters long. The flowers are large, dark maroon to black in color, and grow up to 7.5 centimeters in diameter. The plant blooms from June to September and is a favorite of gardeners for its unique color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Centaurea |
Appearance
Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball has a unique appearance due to its large, dark maroon to black flowers. The flowers grow up to 7.5 centimeters in diameter and are surrounded by dark green, lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 15 centimeters long. The plant produces a single stem that can reach a height of up to 90 centimeters. The flowers bloom from June to September and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for the plant:Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. However, avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.Sunlight: Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized and provide adequate air circulation.
Habitat
Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball is native to Europe and is commonly found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball is an annual plant.Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball?
A: Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil.Q: Can Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant and has adequate drainage.Q: How often should I fertilize Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Centaurea Cyanus Black Ball:- Centaurea montana- Centaurea dealbata- Centaurea macrocephala- Centaurea pulchra- Centaurea scabiosa
References
– “Centaurea cyanus (Cornflower)”. Royal Horticultural Society. – “Centaurea cyanus ‘Black Ball'”. Missouri Botanical Garden. – “Centaurea cyanus ‘Black Ball'”. Plant Finder.
