Cupid's Dart (Catanache)

Cupid’s Dart (Catananche caerulea) is a popular perennial wildflower from the Mediterranean regions of southern Europe, enjoyed for its lavender-blue flowers from mid-summer into early fall. The common name, Cupid’s Dart, is derived from its use by the early Greeks and Romans to make love potions. Best grown in loose, well-draining soil that has a balance of loam and sand, with medium moisture. Avoid unamended heavy clay soils and wet soils, especially in winter. Plants do not perform well in the heat and humidity of the deep South. Recommended companion plant for Shasta Daisy (Chrysanthemum), White Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), and summer-blooming Alliums.