A super big-bang-for-the-buck bloomer, Catananche caerulea, or Cupid’s Dart, sends up masses of sturdy upright stems topped with pearly, papery buds that open into lovely lavender-blue flowers with purple eyes. The effect is light, graceful, and wonderfully romantic, especially in sunny cottage gardens and cutting beds.

This easy perennial brings long-lasting color and airy movement to perennial borders, dry gardens, meadow-style plantings, pollinator beds, and containers. The papery blooms are excellent for fresh arrangements and can also be dried, making Cupid’s Dart especially useful for gardeners who love bouquet flowers with a little wildflower charm. Pair it with yarrow, salvias, grasses, scabiosa, poppies, and silver foliage for a soft, water-wise display.

Plant Catananche caerulea in full sun with well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought tolerant and happiest without overly rich or soggy conditions. Deadhead for continued bloom or leave a few seed heads for texture. Explore more reliable favorites in our Best Selling - Perennials & Biennials collection.