Black Knapweed, Lesser knapweed

Centaurea nigra

Physical Characteristics

Centaurea nigra is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Western Europe, including Britain, from Spain to Norway, east to Germany and Switzerland.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Edible Uses: Flower petals - raw. Added to salads[183].

Medicinal Uses

Diaphoretic Diuretic Tonic The roots and seeds are diaphoretic, diuretic, tonic and vulnerary[4, 61]. The plant once had a very high reputation as a healer of wounds[4].

Known Hazards

None known