*Invasive Species*
Spotted Knapweed, Centurea biebersteinii syn. Centurea maculosa
Spotted Knapweed is a short-lived perennial or biennial that usually grows 2-3 feet tall. From July to September it produces pink to purple flowers that look similar to thistles. It infests sunny prairies, pastures and roadsides. It has a long taproot and is a native of Europe and Asia. Knapweed contains a toxin that kills the neighboring plant roots and can irritate some peoples skin. Protective covering should be worn when dealing with this weed.
