Mountain Bluet
Centaurea montana
Mountain Bluet is a European mountain native with striking fringed blue flowers featuring reddish centers. This vigorous perennial spreads by stolons and creates cheerful cottage garden displays.
Asteraceae (Aster or Daisy family)
Late spring to early summer (May-July), reblooms in fall if deadheaded
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gerberas and yellow himalayan poppys also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Native to the mountains of southern Europe where it thrives in alpine meadows and subalpine zones. The plant has been cultivated in gardens for centuries and has become a beloved cottage garden classic. Its ability to bloom repeatedly and attract beneficial pollinators makes it valued by gardeners. The name "bachelor's button" comes from tradition where unmarried men would wear the flower to show availability. Despite its European origins, it has naturalized in some regions, showing its adaptability.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to light shade
Water
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Average, Well-drained, Dry to medium moisture, Tolerates poor soils
Expert Growing Tips
Easily grown in average, well-drained soils
Deadhead after first bloom for fall rebloom
Spreads by stolons; divide every 2-3 years to control spread
Can self-seed readily if not deadheaded
May need staking in rich soils
Tolerates light deciduous shade better than evergreen shade
Can regenerate from small root pieces left in soil
Note: Considered invasive in British Columbia
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Cottage gardens and informal borders
- Meadow gardens and naturalized areas
- Pollinator gardens (attracts bees and butterflies)
- Cut flower gardens (long vase life)
- Rock gardens
- Edging along walkways
Traditional Uses
- Traditionally used in herbal medicine, though less common today
- Related species contain compounds with various properties
- Primarily grown as ornamental rather than medicinal plant
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Mountain Bluet
Is mountain bluet invasive?
Mountain Bluet can spread vigorously by stolons and self-seed readily. It's considered invasive in British Columbia, Canada, and may need control in gardens. Deadheading prevents self-seeding and division every 2-3 years manages spread.
Will mountain bluet rebloom?
Yes, if you deadhead Mountain Bluet after its first bloom in late spring, it will often rebloom in late summer to early fall, providing a second flush of blue flowers.
What pollinators are attracted to mountain bluet?
Mountain Bluet is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.
How do you divide mountain bluet?
Divide Mountain Bluet clumps in fall every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and control spread. Simply dig up the clump and pull apart into smaller sections, replanting immediately.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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