Centaurea macrocephala: Giant Knapweed for Bold Presence

Centaurea macrocephala – Large Yellow Thistle Flowers

Clumping robust perennial with ramrod-stiff stems blooming early to late summer. Fat rusty buds open into large deep yellow thistle flowers (small fist size). Easy to cut and dry. Big coarse leaves need strong companions.

Culture

Moist soil in sun or partial shade. Propagate by seed in cold frame in spring or divide in spring/fall. Pests: white mold, rust, mildews, thread blight, Southern blight.

At a Glance

• Height: 3–6 ft.
• Spread: 1–3 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Bloom: Summer (yellow)
• Uses: Cottage garden, cut flower, rock garden