Knapweed

Weed Identification Guide Dovefoot Geranium Moth Mullein Thistle Three-cornered Leek Wild Radish Types of Weeds

Knapweed is a particularly noxious genus of weeds (Centaurea), albeit ones with pretty purple flowers.

Most of the species are introduced plants. A handful of the introduced species raise concerns because of their ability to release allelopathic chemicals which stunt the growth of other plants. They have an inbred advantage to create a monoculture plant area in a short period of time. See especially Biology and Biological Control of Knapweed.

In areas where a few plants are discovered, hand pulling the taproots is suggested.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels