Centaurea Uniflora

Description

Centaurea Uniflora, also known as One-flowered Knapweed or White Starthistle, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe but can now be found in various parts of North America. This plant is commonly used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive white or pink flowers, which bloom from June to August. It is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as headaches, fever, and rheumatism.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Centaurea Uniflora can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. It has a deep taproot and produces upright stems that are covered in short, stiff hairs. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped with toothed edges and are also covered in stiff hairs. The flowers are either white or pink and have a unique star-shaped appearance with a central disk surrounded by numerous ray flowers. The plant blooms from June to August.

Care Guide

Centaurea Uniflora is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:

• Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require much watering except during prolonged droughts.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Centaurea Uniflora prefers well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Centaurea Uniflora grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Centaurea Uniflora is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, or root rot if the soil is too wet. Pests such as aphids and thrips may also infest the plant but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Centaurea Uniflora is native to Europe but has been introduced to various parts of North America, including California, Montana, and Utah. It grows in a variety of habitats such as grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. It is often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.

Question and Answer

• Q: Is Centaurea Uniflora toxic to pets?
• A: No, this plant is not toxic to pets.
• Q: Can Centaurea Uniflora be grown in containers?
• A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained.
• Q: How often should Centaurea Uniflora be fertilized?
• A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Q: Does Centaurea Uniflora attract bees and butterflies?
• A: Yes, this plant is known to attract bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

• Centaurea Cyanus (Cornflower)
• Centaurea Montana (Perennial Bachelor’s Button)
• Centaurea Dealbata (Persian Cornflower)
• Centaurea Macrocephala (Yellow Hardhead)

References

• “Centaurea uniflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 1, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e945.
• “Centaurea uniflora.” Utah State University Extension. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://extension.usu.edu/rangeplants/forbsherbaceousplants/centaurea-uniflora.
• “Centaurea uniflora (L.) Baker.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 1, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:191537-1.