Stemmacantha centauroides

Strong, upright stems are topped with fluffy, ball like lilac flowers (larger than a golf ball, smaller than a tennis ball). These sit on a goblet of papery soft brown bracts. At the base and partway up the stems long, serrated silvery leaves provide added interest. I absolutely love this plant, but many may find it a bit odd. A must for anyone who likes the unusual. Originally listed under Centaurea 'Pulchra Major' but now seems to have gain yet another title; Rhaponticum!