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Greater Knapweed
Centaurea scabiosa
Distribution:
Native perennial across the
UK
on grassland,
road sides and cliffs. Habitat:
Grassland and hedgerows in sunny sites. It tolerates poor soils
and grows well in chalky soils.
Description:
Medium to tall plant with
thistle-like, dark flower heads with numerous deep pink/purple florets
at the top of the flower head from July to September.
Very similar to (Lesser) Knapweed but Greater Knapweed is a
larger plant and the flower heads look more ragged.
Uses:
It was used in 17th century to treat wounds, ruptures,
bruises, sores, scabs and sore throats.
Wildlife:
Source of nectar for bees and butterflies and later, finches are
attracted to the seed heads when ripe.
Sowing Instructions for Seed:
Sow seed in spring in a greenhouse or cold frame. When the
seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual
pots. Plant the seedlings
out into their final position in summer.
Our
plants and seeds are of native British origin.
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