Common Knapweed or Hardhead's Wildflower Seed

Common Knapweed or Hardhead's Wildflower Seed is also known as Black Knapweed. This flower is a member of the Compositae family, originating from Europe (including Britain). It is common throughout the British Isles in areas of rough grassland. In the past, the petals were eaten in salads and were valued for their apparently beneficial effect on digestive problems. They were also used to relieve coughs, colds and asthma.

Latin Name

• Centaurea nigra

Life Cycle

• Perennial

Flowering Time

• June to September

Common Knapweed or Hardhead's Wildflower Seed Max Flowering Height

• 50cm

Common Knapweed or Hardhead's Wildflower Seed Approx Sowing Rate

• 3.75kg/Acre

Wildflower Site Preparation

The site should be weed free. Annual weeds should be controlled by mechanical means or by the use of contact based herbicide. Perennial weeds, for example docks thistle, nettles and couch grass can be dealt with using a translocated herbicide such as Round-Up. Cultivate to achieve a fine seed bed, sow seed mix and then roll to ensure firmness. The best results are obtained when there is good contact between the soil and the seeds.

Sowing Times

Sowing can best be achieved by mixing the seed with dry sand, dry sifted topsoil or sawdust and evenly broadcast. It is important that the seed is in contact with moisture in the soil so the seedbed should be lightly raked and then rolled.