Tyrol Knapweed
Centaurea nigrescens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
ME
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Tyrol knapweed is a non-native perennial that produces purple thistle-like flowers from summer through fall. This European species can spread aggressively and may self-seed readily in favorable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tyrol Knapweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Non-native species with invasive potential
- Can spread aggressively and look weedy
- May be considered a noxious weed in some areas
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during its extended blooming period from July through October.
Common questions
- How much sun does Tyrol Knapweed need?
- Tyrol Knapweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Tyrol Knapweed bloom?
- Tyrol Knapweed blooms in July, August, September, and October.
- Where is Tyrol Knapweed native?
- Tyrol Knapweed (Centaurea nigrescens) is native to ME, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Tyrol Knapweed attract?
- Tyrol Knapweed draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Is Tyrol Knapweed HOA-friendly?
- Tyrol 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 Tyrol 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