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Common Knapweed (Centaurea nigra), also known as Hardhead, is a robust native UK perennial producing vibrant purple, thistle-like flowers from mid-summer to early autumn. Ideal for wildflower meadows, verges, and grasslands, it thrives in poor, well-drained soils and supports a wide range of pollinators.
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Common Knapweed, also known as Hardhead (Centaurea nigra), is one of the UK’s most valuable native wildflowers for pollinators. This hardy perennial produces distinctive purple, thistle-like flower heads on sturdy stems from mid-summer through early autumn, making it a cornerstone species for wildflower meadows, grasslands, and habitat restoration projects.
Tolerant of a wide range of soil types, Common Knapweed thrives in full sun and poor to moderately fertile soils. Its nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting vital biodiversity in conservation planting schemes.
Features & Benefits
Vibrant purple flower heads attract a wide range of pollinators
Excellent for wildflower meadows, verges, and grassland schemes
Thrives in dry, low-nutrient soils and full sun
Long flowering period boosts seasonal visual interest
Native UK perennial that supports habitat creation
Latin Name:
Centaurea nigra
Flowering Time:
June – September
Flowering Height:
30 – 80 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
3.75kg per acre (9.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Select an open, sunny site with free-draining, moderately poor to average soil.
Clear existing vegetation and prepare a firm, fine seedbed.
Broadcast the seed evenly over the surface and press in using a roller or by foot—do not bury.
Water lightly during dry periods.
Well suited for inclusion in diverse meadow or pollinator mixes.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.
Latin Name | Centaurea nigra
Flowering Time | June – September
Flowering Height | 30 – 80 cm
Life Cycle | Perennial
Sowing Rate | 3.75 kg per acre (9.25 kg per hectare)
Sowing Period | Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
Preferred Conditions | Full sun; poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soils
Pollinator Friendly | Yes
Minimum Order Quantity | 10g
Ideal For | Meadows, grasslands, verges, biodiversity schemes
