Centaurea montana 'Amethyst in Snow' (Mountain Cornflower)

Centaurea montana 'Amethyst in Snow' is a gorgeous two-tone cultivar of cornflower, a low-growing, clump-forming perennial wildflower related to the thistle. Named for its attractive blooms with dark purple centers surrounded by snow-white tassels, the 'Amethyst in Snow' cultivar produces flowers in the late spring and early summer that contrast beautifully against silvery, fuzzy foliage. Originally native to sub-alpine areas of Europe, Centaurea montana 'Amethyst in Snow' tolerates a variety of harsh conditions, including intense heat, poor soils, and drought, allowing it to grow beautifully in harsher garden areas like rock gardens, slopes, and the 'hell-strip' areas between sidewalks and roadways. 

Centaurea montana typically grows to 1-2' tall, and spreads very slowly out to form clumps about 2-3' wide; in optimal conditions and fertile soil Centaurea montana can colonize an area rapidly, so care should be taken in choosing a suitable location when planting, as this plant has been classified as an invasive in some parts of Canada. Though it may require some extra attention to ensure it doesn't spread too far and take over other areas, Centaurea montana 'Amethyst in Snow' looks beautiful when planted in masses. When arranged close together in a landscape, this cultivar's profusion of striking purple and white blooms can create a blanket effect, and its silvery foliage and attractive, shingled flower buds will be on full display for gardeners, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds alike.