Centaurea nigra
common knapweed
A native, grassland branching perennial about 75-90cm, with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and thistle-like purple flowerheads to 4cm across, with conspicuous blackish bracts
Other common names
bell weedblack centaury
see moreblack knapweed
bowl weed
bull weed
button weed
churl's head
club weed
crop weed
hard weed
hardhead
hardheads
horse knops
horse knots
iron hard
iron heads
iron weed
knob weed
knot weed
lesser knapweed
loggerheads
nob weed
Spanish buttons
sweeps
tassel
pengaled
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Purple Red | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Centaurea may be annuals, perennials or subshrubs, with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and showy thistle-like flowers-heads, often with enlarged outer florets
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- NW to C Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers a well-drained fertile soil in a sunny position. Tolerant of dry, alkaline soils and established plants are tolerant of considerable neglect. Self-seeds readily and may become a nuisance if not managed well. Suited to grasslands, meadows and woodland edges
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free. Resistant to browsing by deer
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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