Also known as Dusty-Miller · Ragwort Knapweed · Silver Dust
Dusty Miller (Centaurea cineraria) is a striking ornamental plant prized for its silvery-white, woolly foliage, adding unique texture and color to gardens and arrangement
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best foliage color and compact growth.
Allow soil to dry between waterings
25% intensity
Drought tolerant once established, prone to root rot if overwatered.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average to warm
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Can tolerate higher temperatures if watered appropriately. Protect from frost.
Low feeders
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring and mid-summer to maintain foliage color and prevent leggy growth.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Dusty Miller prefers well-draining soil and is drought-tolerant. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, especially during cooler months. Reduce watering in winter.
Prune in spring to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems. Pinch back young plants to promote a fuller habit.
Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation and maintain a tidy appearance. Hard pruning can rejuvenate older plants.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert into moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep cuttings in a warm, bright location with indirect light.
Roots typically form within 3-4 weeks. Seeds can also be sown indoors in spring.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, ensuring good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Repot in spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Dusty Miller (Centaurea cineraria)
Where Dusty Miller (Centaurea cineraria) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Centaurea |
| Species | Centaurea cineraria |
Similar in genus Centaurea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
