Knautia

This pretty perennial is a native of central Europe. It grows up to 30 inches high. It is an erect growing plant with deeply divided, dark green stem leaves. The basal foliage dies before blooming, which is in mid-summer. The somewhat spherical flowers are double and very dark crimson; they grow atop lax, branching stems.

Pot Cultivation

This plant needs well-drained soil in a warm, sunny, sheltered place. It may need to be supported with stakes.

Propagation

Basal cuttings may be taken in the spring, or seeds may be sown in the fall.