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Description
Centaurea Aspera, commonly known as rough starthistle, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, but has also been introduced to North America, Australia, and South Africa. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and has yellow thistle-like flowers that bloom from June to September. The stem and leaves of the plant are covered in stiff hairs, giving it a rough texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Centaurea |
Appearance
The rough starthistle has a rough texture due to the stiff hairs covering the stem and leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 20 cm in length. The flowers are yellow and thistle-like, with a diameter of up to 3 cm. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and has a deep taproot system.
Care Guide
Centaurea Aspera is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil. The plant should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centaurea Aspera is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust if grown in humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Centaurea Aspera is native to Europe and Asia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and South Africa. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Centaurea Aspera a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow thistle-like flowers of Centaurea Aspera attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Centaurea Aspera be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Centaurea Aspera can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its deep taproot system.
Q: Does Centaurea Aspera have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Centaurea Aspera has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, headache, and respiratory infections.
Q: Is Centaurea Aspera an invasive species?
A: Yes, Centaurea Aspera is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world, including North America and Australia.
Related Plants
- Centaurea Cyanus
- Centaurea Montana
- Centaurea Nigra
- Centaurea Scabiosa
References
- “Centaurea Aspera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287874.
- “Centaurea Aspera.” Plant Finder. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/centaurea-aspera.
- “Centaurea Aspera.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13272/Centaurea-aspera/Details.
