Plume knapweed (Centaurea nervosa, Enum. Pl. 2: 925 (1809))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Willd.

Bibliography: Enum. Pl. 2: 925 (1809)

Year: 1809

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Centaurea

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Europe

Description

Plume knapweed is a striking and enduring perennial plant distinguished by its vibrant, plume-like flower heads. Scientifically recognized as Centaurea nervosa, this captivating species belongs to the Asteraceae family, a diverse group renowned for its flowering plants.

First formally described in 1809 by the botanist Carl Ludwig Willdenow, as referenced in his work “Enumeratio Plantarum,” Plume knapweed holds a noteworthy place in the botanical records for its unique aesthetic and ecological attributes. As a native to Europe, this species thrives in various environments across the continent, contributing to the rich biodiversity of temperate regions.

Plume knapweed is notable for its hardy nature and its ability to adapt to different soil conditions. The plant typically displays a robust stalk adorned with elongated, lance-like leaves. Its defining feature is the inflorescence—a cluster of striking flowers that boast a feathery appearance. These blooms commonly exhibit shades of purple or blue, adding a splash of color to natural landscapes and cultivated gardens alike.

Beyond its visual appeal, Plume knapweed plays a vital role in the local ecosystems where it grows. It attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thereby supporting pollination processes that are crucial for the production of many crops and the regeneration of wild flora.

Centaurea nervosa’s inclusion in horticulture highlights its aesthetic and ecological values. Gardeners and plant enthusiasts often cultivate it to enhance the natural beauty and biodiversity of garden spaces. Through careful cultivation and conservation efforts, Plume knapweed continues to flourish, inspiring admiration and study among botanists and nature lovers.

Common Names

Eng: singleflower knapweed
En: Plume Knapweed, Singleflower knapweed
Bg: Едноцветна метличина
It: Fiordaliso alpino

Synonyms

• Centaurea uniflora subsp. nervosa ((Willd.) Bonnier & Layens)
• Centaurea uniflora var. nervosa ((Willd.) Burnat)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Austria (native)
• Bulgaria (native)
• France (native)
• Greece (native)
• Italy (native)
• Romania (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 5, 2020 by jonathan kart (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2021 by ZenOlivi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 25, 2022 by Varrey Daniel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 31, 2017 by didier (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 26, 2021 by Beracoechea María (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 20, 2021 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Oct 8, 2022 by Frédéric Lançon (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2020 by Bénédicte OUDART (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 19, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 29, 2022 by Jose (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 7, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 30, 2021 by simon curty (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Aug 19, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 6, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2009 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 30, 2018 by killar (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 16, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Nov 2, 2016 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 2, 2016 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 18, 2020 by Giode Tonpino (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 22, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 23, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 16, 2019 by Maurizio Azzini (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2020 by Bénédicte OUDART (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 8, 2022 by Frédéric Lançon (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jul 20, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3127955)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:191090-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Centaurea nervosa Willd.)

Specifications

Growth