Black Knapweed (Centaurea nigra)

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

Centaurea nigra is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June 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: Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Flower petals - raw. Added to salads. — Flower petals - raw.; Added to salads.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassland, waysides, cliffs etc to 600 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)