Spotted Knapweed
Centaurea stoebe
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
MD
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spotted knapweed is a biennial wildflower that produces pink-purple thistle-like blooms from June through August. This drought-tolerant plant reaches 1-4 feet tall and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spotted Knapweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Considered an invasive weed in many areas
- Can spread aggressively and crowd out desirable plants
- May be prohibited by local ordinances
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the summer blooming period. As a biennial, it provides nectar resources consistently across growing seasons.
Common questions
- How much sun does Spotted Knapweed need?
- Spotted Knapweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Spotted Knapweed bloom?
- Spotted Knapweed blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Spotted Knapweed native?
- Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea stoebe) is native to MD, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Spotted Knapweed attract?
- Spotted Knapweed draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Is Spotted Knapweed HOA-friendly?
- Spotted Knapweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Spotted Knapweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz