Common Knapweed Wildflower Seed (Centaurea nigra) produces vibrant purple flowers from summer into autumn and thrives in dry, sunny meadows, making it a key species for pollinators and habitat creation.
Benefits
Rich purple flower heads that attract bees and butterflies
Hardy UK native perennial with strong wildlife value
Ideal for meadows, verges, and conservation areas
Tolerates dry, poor soils and full sun
Long flowering period supports seasonal biodiversity
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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.
Attribute Detail
Latin Name Centaurea nigra
Flowering Time June – September
Flowering Height 30 – 80 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 3.75kg per acre (9.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Full sun; poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Meadows, grasslands, verges, biodiversity schemes
