Centaurium muehlenbergii - Web page Navigation - Monterey Centaury, Muhlenberg's Centaury Page

Discover the enchanting world of Centaurium muehlenbergii, commonly known as Monterey Centaury or Muhlenberg's Centaury. This delightful annual or biennial herb is a native treasure of western North America, stretching from British Columbia to California and Nevada. Growing gracefully between 3 to 30 cm tall, this slender plant features thin, erect stems adorned with opposite, oval-shaped leaves ranging from 5-25 mm in length. Monterey Centaury thrives in moist open habitats, such as vernal wetlands, meadows, and forests at low elevations, providing a picturesque glance at nature's beauty.

From June through August, witness the bloom of its charming flowers, colored in delicate shades of white to pink. Each flower, about 1.2-1.4 cm long, boasts five funnel-shaped lobes, with anthers elegantly extending beyond the tube, making Monterey Centaury a subtle yet captivating presence in the landscape. Despite its unassuming appearance, this plant's seeds and tubular blooms offer a testament to nature’s resilience and grace. Perfect for those who appreciate unique flora, Monterey Centaury is a must-have for garden enthusiasts and conservationists alike.