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Diffuse Knapweed (Centaurea diffusa)

Diffuse knapweedDiffuse knapweed is a biennial. It reproduces from seed only. The first year's growth is in the rosette stage. The next year it produces a seed stalk with terminal buds at the end of limbs.

Diffuse knapweed is distinct from the other knapweeds in that it has spiney bracts on the seed head that will actually prick your finger.

Diffuse knapweed spreads its seed by lodging when mature and tumbling in the wind across the land. It is an aggressive weed that is alleopathic and poisonous to horses.
Photo courtesy of the Western Society of Weed Science


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