SafePlants

Feather-head Knapweed

Learn about Centaurea trichocephala, commonly known as Feather-head Knapweed.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces seeds that can catch on fur or feathers, potentially causing minor irritation or matting in pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant produces seeds that can catch on clothing, potentially causing minor irritation.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Centaurea trichocephala M. Bieb. ex Willd.
• Family: Asteraceae (also referred to as Compositae in some texts)
• Common Names: Feather-head Knapweed, Featherhead Knapweed, Feather-headed Knapweed, Hairy-head Knapweed
• Synonyms: Trichocephala (implied, based on text referring to "Feather-head Knapweed (Trichocephala)")

Distribution and Habitat

• Mentioned in Yakima County, where efforts have been made to eradicate it.
• Spotted Knapweed, a related species, occurs in all 56 counties in Montana.
• Transported via ballast and unloaded at ports.

Ecological Role

• Considered a noxious weed in some regions, appearing on monitoring lists.
• Can be invasive, as seen with related species like spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa).

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial herbaceous plant.
• Forb/herb (non-woody plant).
• Grows in a bright place with direct sunlight.
• Leaves can be pinnately divided (feather-like).
• Flower heads are discoid, disciform, or radiant.
• Fringed bracts at the base of the flower heads with brown feather-like tips.
• Seed heads tightly closed.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Seeds can catch on fur and feathers, aiding in dispersal.
• Mentioned in connection with the seed head weevil (Rhinocyllus conicus) which can infest the seed heads.

Resources and Further Information

• Discover Life's page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Centaurea trichocephala.
• Garden Guides for plant information, identification, uses, and gardening tips.