BACKGROUND: Originally found in Eurasia, spotted knapweed infests rangeland, pastures, roadsides, or any disturbed soils. Knapweeds release chemical substances into the soil that inhibit the growth of competing vegetation.

OTHER COMMON NAMES: Centaurea maculosa

DESCRIPTION: Spotted knapweed is a short-lived, herbaceous perennial that is 1 to 3 feet tall. The rosette leaves are deeply lobed and may be 6 inches in length. The stems are moderately leaved. Flowers are typically pink with black-tipped flower bracts. Bloom is in early summer.

CONTROL: Several biocontrol agents are available and offer fair to good control. Select herbicides can offer good to excellent control when applied between rosette and pre-bud stages.