Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea stoebe)
2B, widespread in Montana
Quick ID
- Tap-rooted, rosette-forming perennial forb
- Spreads by seed
- Flower color tends to be pinkish-purple but can be light purple or white
- Flower heads surrounded by bracts (small leaf-like structures) that are marked with fine vertical streaks and tipped with a dark comb-like fringe
- Height up to 6 feet
Spotted Knapweed
Video Information
Weed Images
Weed Specifications
| Type | Information |
|---|---|
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Best Management Practices | Integrated management using hand pulling, biological, herbicide and mechanical. |
| Habitat | Prefers well-drained soils but occurs in a wide range of soil types; grows in open forests; invades undisturbed plant communities as well; steep, south facing shrub and grasslands are most vulnerable. |
| Root | Taproot |
| Leaves | Rosette leaves deeply lobed, linear mature leaves. |
| Lifespan | Biennial or short-lived perennial. |
| Similar Looking Plants | Rosette leaves deeply loped, linear mature leaves. |
| Important Information | Plants are suspected to contain toxins that inhibit the growth of neighboring plants. Seeds remain viable in the soil for up to eight years. |
