SafePlants

Centaurea aspera - Rough Star-thistle

Centaurea aspera, commonly known as Rough Star-thistle, is a plant with various other common names and a documented presence in both Europe and the United States.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is described as having spines, so caution is advised.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is described as having spines, so caution is advised.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Centaurea aspera L.
• Common Names: Rough Star-thistle, Knapweed
• Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
• Synonyms: Other common names include golden starthistle, yellow cockspur and Maltese star-thistle (Centaurea melitensis).

Distribution and Habitat

• Centaurea aspera is found in Europe and has also been introduced to New York, United States.
• One observation was recorded near Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, France.
• It has been found growing on beaches and by pathsides.

Ecological Role

• Some members of the Asteraceae family, including thistles and knapweeds, are considered highly invasive.
• Yellow starthistle is shade intolerant and can survive periods of drought.

Morphological Characteristics

• Stems are erect, branching, rough, and can grow up to 1 meter tall, forming a bushy cluster.
• The plant is described as grayish overall.
• It has purple flower heads with long, floppy petals.
• It is covered with slender, purplish spines.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant is mentioned as a food source for some organisms, and there is also mention of it being found near grasses.

Resources

• Information can be found on Discover Life.
• The UK Biodiversity Action Plan identifies the Red Star-thistle as a Priority Species.
• University of California provides guidelines for control of Yellow Starthistle.