Can you grow Knautia from seed?
Knautia seeds require a period of moisture and cold to germinate and are easiest sown into pots in late autumn and left outside over winter for spring germination. Knautia is perfect for the middle of the border where it adds texture to landscape beds. Don’t overlook it for container gardens, though — knautia grows well in pots, too! And because it’s a deer-resistant plant, you can grow it in just about any sunny spot. Grow knautia in a spot with full sun or partial shade.It’s best planted in a well-drained soil in full sun and supported with twiggy pea sticks, since it has a tendency to sprawl. Although Knautia macedonica prefers alkaline soil, it will thrive in neutral soil too. It is also a magnet for bees and butterflies.Knautia are informal annuals and perennials with pincushion-like flowers that are very attractive to bees and butterflies. They are perfect for cottage gardens, wildlife areas and naturalistic planting schemes, offering a long season of meadowy charm.
Does Knautia macedonica attract bees?
The wine-red, pincushion-like flowers of crimson pincushion (Knautia macedonica) bloom continuously from early summer through late fall. This short-lived perennial thrives in full sun and dryish soils. The flowers are great for use as fresh-cut or dried flowers, and the nectar is a favorite of bees and butterflies. A deservedly popular plant with red pincushion flowers atop tall stems. Great for an informal border and will gently self seed if allowed.