Centaurea montana

Mountain Bluet

A hardy, long-lived perennial forming loose clumps of gray-green foliage topped with clear blue, thistle-like flowers in late spring to early summer. Plants often rebloom lightly if deadheaded. Centaurea montana is valued for its toughness, pollinator appeal, and naturalized character in borders and meadow-style plantings.

Size: 18–24 in wide × 18–24 in tall

Zones: 3a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained soils; adaptable to average garden soils
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Suitable Conditions:



Climate: Performs best in cool to moderate climates



Exposure: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates light shade



Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline



Drainage: Essential; avoid consistently wet soils



Spacing: Allow room for gradual spread; divide to control size if needed



Notes:



Shape: Upright clumps with a loose, spreading habit over time



Attracts bees and butterflies



Excellent for mixed borders, cottage gardens, and naturalized areas



Can spread by rhizomes; divide periodically to maintain vigor



Generally deer and rabbit resistant

Plant type

Perennial

Height

18-24''

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

3–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring, Summer

Flower color

Blue

Leaf color

Yellow

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies

Soil

Alkaline, Moist well-drained

Shape

Clump, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No