Spotted Knapweed

       

Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea stoebe) Sunflower family

Small infestations found in Fairbanks area - Report immeddiately if found! Call 479-1213

Biennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall from a stout taproot. Basal rosettes have deeply lobed gray-green leaves. Flower heads pink-purple, consisting of ray florets only, solitary at the end of stem branches.Involucral bracts are topped with dark comb-like fringe giving a spotted appearance.

Spreads only by seed. Adapted to well-drained soils. Responsible for millions of dollars in economic loss and environmental damage in the western United States.

Not known to occur in Fairbanks; however, found in Anchorage, Valdez, and numerous locations in Southeast Alaska. Look for this plant in natural and unnaturally disturbed areas.

More information

Distribution