Meadow knapweed

(Centaurea pratensis)

This Colorado List A species is a perennial plant that is native to Europe. It is thought to be a hybrid between brown and black knapweed. Mature plants are from 2 to 3 feet tall with many branches from the middle. Flowers are pink to purple, borne at the end of each stalk, 3/4 of an inch in diameter with a brownish bract beneath them.

Leaves are 6 inches long and 1-inch wide, with lobed lower leaves and linear upper leaves. Potential habitats include: irrigated pastures, irrigation ditches, stream banks and moist meadows. Meadow knapweed is found in the upper Dry Hollow area south of Silt.