Globe Centaurea is a robust perennial from the Caucasus, reportedly introduced to Britain in 1805. The Philadelphia nurseryman, Bernard McMahon, sent seeds of the species to Thomas Jefferson in 1812. Easily grown from seed, the plant forms clumps three to four feet high with large thistle-like flowers in early summer. Its chestnut-brown buds open to expose a crown of rich yellow florets.

Sow seeds in spring or summer, covering with no more than one-half inch of soil. Globe Centaurea does best in full sun, and in well-drained soils that are not too rich. USDA Zones 3-9.

Approximately 10-15 seeds per pack.

Line Drawing from The Herbal or General History of Plants by John Gerard (1633) zone3, zone4, zone5, zone6, zone7, zone8, zone9

Not available for 2012.