Centaurea stoebe is a species of Centaurea found in Northern Italy. It is also an invasive species in the United States, and particularly widespread in dryer regions of the Pacific Northwest. It forms a tumbleweed, helping to increase the species' reach, and the seeds are also enabled by a feathery pappus.
Family:
Asteraceae (Aster)
Height:
2 to 3 feet
Leaves:
Alternate, gray-green, divided, and smaller towards the top of the stem
Flower:
Many small pink to purple petals on long stalks from leaf axils
Bloom time:
June-October
Habitat:
Spreads rapidly in dry, disturbed environments
Can I plant this in my garden?
No, spotted knapweed is a non-native, invasive plant that spreads aggressively and outcompetes desirable native plants. It is on Minnesota’s noxious weed list and should be eradicated where found. It can be managed by cutting at the time of flowering or by hand pulling small plants.
References:
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/spotted-knapweed
Family | Asteraceae |
---|---|
Habit | Forb |
Origin | introduced |
Life cycle | biennial, perennial |
Listing | invasive, noxious weed, prohibited or restricted |
Flower | pink, purple |
Bloom time | (6) June, (7) July, (8) August, (9) September, 10 - October |
*sites | Keller Golf Course, Lake Phalen, Snail Lake |