Brown Knapweed (Centaurea jacea)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Centaurea jacea is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The young leaves are cooked as a vegetable [1b]. — The young leaves are cooked as a vegetable [1b].

Habitat & North American Range

Hedgerows, uncultivated land and waste ground. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)