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Class A Noxious Weed

Bighead Knapweed
Centaurea macrocephala
 

Bighead Knapweed flower

Other common names: Lemon fluff
Plant family:
Asteraceae (Compositae)
Year listed:
Native to: Romania and Armenia

Why is it a noxious weed?

Once established, this species is very difficult to control, and is a threat to our natural areas, including subalpine meadows.

 

How would I identify it?

General Description: Tallest knapweed in Washington State, reaching 2 - 5 feet in height.

Leaves:

  • lance shaped with toothed edges and pointed tips

Flowers:

  • bright yellow
  • globe shaped

Stems:

  • upright and unbranched, terminating in a single flower head

Line drawings are taken from 1,000 Weeds of North America, copyright of XID Service, Inc and used with permission. Permission granted by the author.

How does it reproduce?

Bighead knapweed reproduces by seed, reproduction is also possible from root divisions.

Where does it grow?

Open grassy areas such as fields and pastures.

What is the distribution in Washington State?

 
  • There are two known field locations in Washington. All sites appear to have been originally cultivated as an ornamental species.
  • The site in Pend Oreille County, was discovered in 1981. This site is an abandoned homestead.
  • If you think you may have seen this weed, please contact your county weed coordinator or us at noxiousweeds@agr.wa.gov.
     
  • Distribution map not available at this time.

How do I control it?

General control methods: Bighead knapweed is a tap-rooted perennial, pulling is impractical for large infestations, but small plants may be dug. Bighead knapweed can re-sprout if root is left intact.

Herbicide: The rates for various chemical control options are found in the annually updated Pacific Northwest Weed Control Handbook, or contact your county weed coordinator.

Mechanical: Repeated mowing will diminish seed production and will eventually deplete root reserves.

Biological: None known.

For more information

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Bighead Knapweed infestation
Bighead knapweed infestation.

 Last updated September 10, 2008