Medium native perennial with thistle-shaped, pink/purple flowers from June to September. Prefers sunny sites.
Other Names: Hardheads, Black Knapweed, Lesser Knapweed
Distribution: Native perennial across theUKon grassland, road sides and cliffs.
Habitat: Grassland and hedgebanks in sunny sites. It tolerates poor soils and grows well in very chalky soils.
Description: Medium height with thistle-like, dark flower heads with numerous deep pink florets at the top of the flower head. The flowers appear between June and September.
Folklore: It was said that the centaur Chiron from Greek mythology, used the plant to heal wounds.
Wildlife: Source of nectar for bees and butterflies. It is the food plant of the Lime Speck Pug Moth. Finches are attracted to the seed heads when ripe.
