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Cupid's Dart Wikimedia Commons
Asteraceae

Cupid's Dart

Catananche caerulea

Love and enchantment.

Family
Asteraceae
Genus
Catananche
Native to
Southern Europe, Mediterranean
Bloom season
Summer
Type
Perennial
Height
40-60 cm
Sunlight
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, poor to average
Water
Low
Hardiness
4-9
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial

Did you know

  • Ancient Greeks used cupid's dart in love potions, giving it the name from 'katanangke' meaning strong incentive.
  • The papery bracts surrounding the flowers give them a straw-like texture excellent for dried arrangements.
  • Cupid's dart is one of the few truly blue-flowered plants available for dry garden conditions.
  • The flowers close on cloudy days and reopen when the sun returns.
  • Although perennial, individual plants tend to be short-lived and should be replaced every two to three years.

Color meanings

0

Love potions

1

Enchantment

2

Sweet deception

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Dried flower
  • Cut flower
  • Mediterranean garden