photo: Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org
Brown Knapweed (Centaurea jacea)
 Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org |
 Bruce Ackley, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org |
 Bruce Ackley, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org |
Form:
Erect perennial, 8"-32" tall
Leaves:
Usually either undivided or toothed; lower more than 1/3" wide; larger ones possibly with a few lobes.
Flowers:
Solitary head of flowers at the end of branches, 1"-1 1/4" wide with purple disk flowers, bracts (phyllaries) roughly fringed and brownish; June-Sept.
Similar Species:
Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) has sharply-pointed, spiny leaves and tighter flower heads.
Tier 3 - Presence is of Interest
The species that occur in this tier are likely ornamental escapes. It is not known whether they are established and/or spreading within Cleveland Metroparks. The ecological impact is poorly known for these species.
Action: The presence of these plants should be recorded by approximating the number of plants. Initial population numbers are likely small.
