Cupid's Dart
catananche caerulea
Also known as: ["Blue Cupid's Dart","Blue Love Flower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its striking blue flowers and papery bracts.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Catananche |
| Botanical Name: | Catananche caerulea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to remove dead or weak stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to full sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential for blooms; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; water adequately in heat; adjust care seasonally.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; stop feeding in cooler months; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems to promote bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming and maintain plant shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead regularly; trim weak growth; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in frosty conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if water and light conditions are not optimal.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide some afternoon shade if possible; ensure good air circulation to reduce stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCatananche caerulea is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCatananche caerulea is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to canines when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCatananche caerulea is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and incidental ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Cupid's Dart?
A: Propagate by seed in spring or by division in autumn.
Q: Does Cupid's Dart attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Cupid's Dart drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
