brownray knapweed
Family
AsteraceaeScientific Name
Centaurea jacea
Other Common Names:
brown centaury
brown knapweed
hardheads
horse-knobs
rayed knapweed
Habit
Brown knapweed reproduces by seeds. It, like most other knapweeds, has a taproot system which allows it to suck water and nutrients from nearby plants.
Leaves
The leaves of brown knapweed are egg-shaped or lance shaped. The leaves become smaller as they move up the stem.
Identifying Characteristics
Brown knapweed can be distinguished from other knapweeds due to its brachts, which are tan to brown and paper-like at the edges.
Flower Seed Head
The flower heads of brown knapweed are 1 inch to 1 1/4 inch in diameter. They are ray type flowers and most often are magenta in color. The flowers bloom from June to October.
Seed Fruit
Brown knapweed seeds have tufts on the end and are approximately 1/8 inch long. The seeds are the source of reproduction.
Where Found
Brown knapweed is found throughout the North East and North Western United States. It originated and is found throughout Europe.
Growth Habit
upright and nonwoody
Thorns or Spines
not present
Dominant Flower Color
purple
Flower Symmetry
radial symmetery
Leaf Hairs
no hairs
Leaf Shape
lance
Leaf Arrangement
alternate
Leaf Margin
lobed
Leaf Structure
simple
Leaf Stalk
shorter than leaf
Stem Cross Section
round or oval
Milky Sap
not present
Root Structure
taproot
Life Cycle
perennial
Ochrea
not present
Plant Type
Herb