10+
Basketflower, botanically known as Centaurea americana, is an annual flowering plant valued for its upright growth and distinctive, fringed blooms. It develops sturdy stems with lobed foliage and produces large, thistle-like flowers in shades of pink during the growing season. This plant adapts well to warm and temperate climates and performs best in full sun with well-drained soil. Basketflower is commonly used in garden beds, borders, and naturalized planting, where it establishes readily from seeds and grows steadily under suitable conditions.
Features
- Upright annual plant with branching growth
- Produces large, fringed pink flowers
- Suitable for garden beds and naturalized areas
- Adapted to sunny and warm conditions
- Establishes easily from seeds
Specifications
- Scientific name: Centaurea americana
- Common name (US): American Basketflower
- Seed type / variety: Pink flowering variety
- Growth habit: Upright annual
- USDA zones: 3-10 (grown as annual)
- Planting season: Spring
- Growing season: Summer to fall
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Sowing Season:
- Spring: March to May
- Germination time and conditions: 7-14 days at 18-24°C
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun
- Soil requirements: Well-drained soil, adaptable to various types
- Watering needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
- Mature plant size: 60-120 cm height, 30-60 cm spread
- Plant spacing: 30-45 cm between plants
