Maltese centaury
Centaurea melitensis · Asteraceae
Croix de Malte
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant maltese centaury: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Maltese Cross
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Plant type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering period
- June to August
- Flower color
- Bright yellow
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Tender, prefers warm temperate climates
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin, Malta
Care
Exposure and climate
Plant your Maltese Cross in full sun, ideally in a south or west-facing position. It loves warm, well-lit situations. In cold regions, grow it as a spring annual or protect it over winter.
Soil and planting
Choose well-draining, light soil that is preferably chalky and poor. The Maltese Cross tolerates dry, rocky soils well. Avoid overly wet or compacted soil that promotes rot.
Watering
Water moderately and regularly during the growing period, then reduce gradually. Once established, this Mediterranean plant tolerates drought well. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization
No fertilizer is needed except in very poor soil. Balanced fertilizer diluted in spring can support growth and flowering without excess.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch back young plants to encourage a bushy habit. Remove spent flowers to extend blooming. At the end of its cycle, leave a few flowers to set seed if you'd like natural reseeding.
Pests and diseases
Rarely affected by diseases in optimal conditions. Excess moisture can lead to root rot or mildew. Watch for aphids early in the season and remove them by hand or with soapy water.
Did you know?
The Maltese Cross gets its name from the island of Malta where it grows abundantly, and from the distinctive shape of its spiny bracts that resemble a cross. Its bright yellow flowers have long captivated Mediterranean botanists and painters, who immortalized it in their botanical specimens.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.