SafePlants

Greater Knapweed (Centaurea scabiosa)

Greater Knapweed, scientifically known as Centaurea scabiosa, is a perennial plant admired for its vibrant purple flower heads. It's a robust and attractive plant known to self-seed readily, making it a favorite for wildflower plantings.

Considerations for Pets

• Greater Knapweed is described as a "somewhat bristly plant".
• It is a thistle-like plant.

Considerations for Children

• Greater Knapweed is described as a "somewhat bristly plant".
• It is a thistle-like plant.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Centaurea scabiosa
• Common Name: Greater Knapweed
• Family: Daisy Family (Compositae), subfamily Carduoideae (formerly Aster Family – Asteraceae)
• Other Common Names: Greater centaury scabious knapweed

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Europe and occasionally found in parts of North America.
• Commonly found in the UK on grassland, roadsides, chalk downlands, roadside verges, woodland rides, hedgerows, and cliff tops.
• Prefers open grasslands and particularly calcareous (chalky) soils.

Morphological Characteristics

• A medium to tall, robust plant, reaching up to 1.5 meters in height (approximately 3 feet).
• Stems are erect and branched above.
• Leaves are usually pinnately lobed with oblong or linear segments, described as linear to lance-like in shape with incomplete lobes.
• Flowers from July to September.
• Has large, purple, thistle-like flower heads, sometimes described as reddish-purple.

Ecological Role

• Attracts various species of butterflies, moths, and bees, serving as a valuable nectar source.
• Can self-seed freely and, in some situations, may become a nuisance.

Quirky Facts

• An engraving of 'Greater Knapweed (Centaurea scabiosa L.)' by Elizabeth Blackwell from 'A Curious Herbal' (1737) is preserved as museum piece.

Further Information

• The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides help and information on Centaurea scabiosa (Greater Knapweed).