Thriving on neglect, Centaurea scabiosa (Greater Knapweed) is an upright perennial with large purple, thistle-like flower heads, 2 in. wide (5 cm), adorned with prominent outer florets from mid-summer to early fall. Attracting bees, butterflies, and other admirers, the bold blossoms appear atop sturdy stems above the foliage of pinnately lobed leaves. Native to Europe, Greater Knapweed self-seeds readily and can become invasive.

• Grows up to 30 in. tall (75 cm) and 12-16 in. wide (30-40 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in dry to mesic, well-drained soils. Tolerant to poor, alkaline soils.
• Good choice for wildlife gardens, prairies, and meadows.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by seed.
• Centaurea scabiosa is native to Europe, where it grows in dry grasslands, hedgerows, and cliffs on lime-rich soil.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.