Contents
Description
Centaurea Benedicta, also known as Holy Star Thistle, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to southern Europe and is commonly found in Italy, Greece, and the Balkans. The plant has a unique appearance, with a spherical flower head that is surrounded by spiny bracts. The flower head is usually purple or pink in color and blooms from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Centaurea |
Appearance
As mentioned earlier, Centaurea Benedicta has a spherical flower head that is surrounded by spiny bracts. The flower head is usually purple or pink in color and can grow up to two inches in diameter. The leaves of the plant are deeply lobed and are gray-green in color. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and has a spread of about one foot.
Care Guide
Centaurea Benedicta is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. However, make sure to water it thoroughly during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil. It can tolerate alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Centaurea Benedicta is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centaurea Benedicta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that thrive in poorly-draining soil. Make sure to plant the Centaurea Benedicta in well-draining soil to prevent this disease.
Habitat
Centaurea Benedicta is native to southern Europe and is commonly found in Italy, Greece, and the Balkans. It grows in dry and rocky habitats, such as hillsides and meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Centaurea Benedicta poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous.
Q: Can Centaurea Benedicta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: Can Centaurea Benedicta be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, headaches, and digestive problems.
Q: Is Centaurea Benedicta invasive?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Related Plants
- Centaurea Cyanus
- Centaurea Montana
- Centaurea Nigra
- Centaurea Scabiosa
References
- “Centaurea Benedicta – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286931. Accessed 12 May 2021.
- “Centaurea Benedicta.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/56284/. Accessed 12 May 2021.
- “Holy Star Thistle.” University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources, http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/holystar.html. Accessed 12 May 2021.
