Contents
Description
Centaurea Montana Alba is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly known as White Mountain Bluet or Perennial Cornflower. This plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and 30 cm in width. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a grey-green color. The flowers are large, white, and have a fluffy appearance, and bloom in early summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Centaurea |
Appearance
The White Mountain Bluet has lance-shaped leaves that have a grey-green color. The flowers are large, white, and fluffy-looking. They bloom in early summer to early fall and can grow up to 60 cm in height and 30 cm in width. This plant has a bushy habit and adds a touch of elegance to gardens.
Care Guide
White Mountain Bluet is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: White Mountain Bluet prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
White Mountain Bluet is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. In case of an infestation, use appropriate fungicides.
Habitat
White Mountain Bluet is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in meadows, pastures, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is White Mountain Bluet toxic?
A: No, White Mountain Bluet is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: How often should I water White Mountain Bluet?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
Q: What is the best time to plant White Mountain Bluet?
A: The best time to plant White Mountain Bluet is in spring or fall.
Q: How do I propagate White Mountain Bluet?
A: White Mountain Bluet can be propagated by division in spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Centaurea cyanus (Cornflower)
- Centaurea scabiosa (Greater knapweed)
- Centaurea montana (Perennial cornflower)
- Centaurea dealbata (Persian cornflower)
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/centaurea-montana-alba-white-mountain-bluet
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/centaurea/growing-white-mountain-bluet.htm
- https://www.nature-and-garden.com/gardening/centaurea-montana.html
