Spotted knapweed - Centaurea stoebe (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Control)

Spotted knapweed

Spotted knapweed, or Centaurea stoebe, is known throughout the United States as a particularly harmful noxious weed. It crowds out native grasses, which increases soil erosion and water runoff. There is some control of spotted knapweed that can be done by grazing sheep on problem areas, as all growth stages of this plant are nutritious to sheep.

Scientific classification

Species

Spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

30 cm to 70 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 80 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

6 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Green

Fruit Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Spotted knapweed

Distribution of Spotted knapweed

Distribution Map

Spotted knapweed is indigenous to southeastern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean region. It has been introduced and is now naturalized in central and northern Europe, where it has adapted to a broad range of habitats. As an expansive species, spotted knapweed has been successful in establishing itself outside its native range, particularly within temperate climate zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Stream banks, pond shorelines, sand prairies, old fields and pastures, roadsides, along railroads, many open and disturbed areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Hope, remembrance, devotion, delicacy, anticipation, unity, fertility and love, wealth, prosperity and future

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Weed Control

Spotted knapweed is an invasive plant native to Asia and Europe. It was introduced in the 1890s as a containment. The plant is prohibited across the United States and is a serious problem in the western part of the country. The weed spreads quickly in rangeland and pastures, eliminating grazing animals' natural food source. It also degrades wildlife habitats and prevents the completion of landscape and reforestation efforts. The weed has a long taproot, making it difficult to remove. It can grow up to 1.2 m easily blocking out smaller native plants. The weed spreads by seeding in the fall.

How to Control It

The best time to remove spotted knapweed is during Spring or early Summer, before the plant start to flower and set seed. Here are some organic or interesting methods that could be used for removal or control of spotted knapweed:

Hand Pulling: This method is efficient for small infestations. Make sure to wear gloves and pull the plant from the root to prevent it from regrowing.
Mowing: Regular mowing before the flowering stage can prevent seed production and spread. This will progressively weaken the plant and reduce its population over time.
Solarization: This is a process where you cover the area infested with the plant with a clear plastic sheet during the warm months. The heat from the sun will kill the seeds and young plants under the plastic.
Biological Control: Some insects and fungi are known enemies of spotted knapweed. These include the Knapweed Root Weevil and the Knapweed Flower Weevil. Releasing these into infested areas may help control the weed population. Please consult with local agricultural extension offices for advice on this method.
Planting Competitive Species: Plant species that can out-compete spotted knapweed for resources. Plants with dense growth and quick reproduction rates can help suppress the growth of spotted knapweed.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Spotted knapweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Spotted knapweed, native to dry grasslands, thrives in low-water environments and prefers drier conditions. This drought-tolerant species needs weekly watering to mimic its habitat but benefits from natural rainfall during the growing season, aligning with its minimal irrigation requirements.

Fertilize: Spotted knapweed thrives in poor soils, yet proper nutrition enhances flowering. Apply a base fertilizer before sowing and nitrogen during growth. For blooms, use phosphorus and potassium fertilizers two weeks prior, but avoid over-fertilization to prevent weed growth and reduce flowering.

Pruning: To promote larger flowers in spotted knapweed, remove excess terminal buds. Mid-summer may lead to wilting leaves; pruning to one-third or half of its height aids recovery. In winter, trim perennial roots to protect spotted knapweed from cold and frost damage.

Propagation: Spotted knapweed propagates best in spring via sowing, with moderate difficulty. Key success indicators include germination and healthy root growth. Effective soil preparation and maintaining consistent moisture levels enhance propagation outcomes.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Spotted knapweed

Distribution of Spotted knapweed

Culture

Weed Control

Care Guide for Spotted knapweed

PEOPLE ALSO ASK