Greater knapweed

Centaurea scabiosa

Centaurea scabiosa, commonly known as greater knapweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe, it is known for its attractive purple flowers and is valued in gardens for its ornamental qualities. Here's an overview:

Botanical Description:

  1. Growth Form:

    • Greater knapweed is a herbaceous perennial, growing from a woody base.

  2. Height:

    • It typically reaches a height of about 60 to 120 centimeters (24 to 47 inches).

  3. Leaves:

    • The leaves are deeply lobed, lance-shaped, and grayish-green. They are arranged alternately along the stems.

  4. Stems:

    • The stems are robust and may have a slightly hairy texture.

  5. Flowers:

    • The flower heads are large and showy, with tubular purple flowers surrounded by bracts. Each head resembles a thistle-like structure.

  6. Inflorescence:

    • The flowers are arranged in dense, rounded clusters at the ends of the stems.

Identification Tips:

  • Thistle-Like Appearance:

    • The overall appearance of the flower heads resembles that of thistles.

  • Deeply Lobed Leaves:

    • The leaves are deeply lobed, giving them a distinctive appearance.

  • Purple Flowers:

    • The tubular flowers are typically purple, adding to the plant's ornamental value.

Habitat:

  • Distribution:

    • Native to Europe. It is cultivated in gardens and may escape into naturalized settings.

  • Habitat:

    • Greater knapweed is found in meadows, grasslands, and open woodlands.

Ecological Role:

  • Pollinator Attraction:
    • The nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Uses:

  • Ornamental Plant:
    • Greater knapweed is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive flowers.

Note:

  • Invasiveness:
    • While it is not typically considered invasive, it may spread in garden settings.