Seed

Greater Knapweed

Wild Flower

(Centaurea scabiosa)

Best recognised as a cross between a cornflower and a thistle, Greater knapweed is a valuable source of nectar for pollinators.

Uses

Distinguishing characteristics

Seed

Flowering Plant
Has a large purple flowerhead, the outer petals forming a sparse halo/ray (reaching 3-5cm in diameter). Leaves are pinnately lobed and sparsely bristly. Reaches 25cm tall. Flowers June - August

Additional Info

Lesser knapweed forms a compact pom pom of pink lanceolate petals, similar to a thistle head. Greater knapweed is similar, although has an outer 'halo' of sparsely arranged, trumpet shaped flowers. This creates a larger flowerhead, up to 5cm diameter.

Works well with

Field scabious, hedge bedstraw, ladys bedstraw, red clover, small scabious and white clover

You can find Greater Knapweed in the following mixtures

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