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Description
Centaurea horrida, commonly known as the Horrid Knapweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the aster family (Asteraceae). It is native to the mountains of Europe, including the Balkans, the Alps, and the Carpathians. The plant grows up to 60 cm high and has a deep taproot system that can reach up to 1.5 meters. The leaves are deeply divided and have a fern-like appearance. The flowers are purple, and they bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Centaurea |
Appearance
Centaurea horrida has a distinctive appearance with deeply divided fern-like leaves and purple flowers. The plant grows up to 60 cm high and has a deep taproot system that can reach up to 1.5 meters. The leaves are a pale green color and have a rough texture. The flowers are purple, and they have a distinctive cone-shaped center surrounded by spiky bracts. The flowers bloom from June to August and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Centaurea horrida is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Centaurea horrida thrives in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centaurea horrida is relatively pest and disease-free. However, some pests and diseases that may affect the plant include:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves.- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, leading to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Habitat
Centaurea horrida is native to the mountains of Europe, including the Balkans, the Alps, and the Carpathians. The plant thrives in well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is commonly found in meadows, rocky slopes, and open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Centaurea horrida a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the purple flowers of Centaurea horrida are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Centaurea horrida be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Centaurea horrida can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the deep taproot system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Centaurea horrida?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Centaurea horrida?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Centaurea horrida:- Centaurea montana (Perennial Cornflower)- Centaurea cyanus (Bachelor’s Button)- Centaurea dealbata (Persian Cornflower)- Centaurea macrocephala (Yellow Hardhead)
References
– “Centaurea Horrida.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277247&isprofile=0&.- “Centaurea Horrida.” Plant Finder, www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/centaurea/centaurea-horrida.
