(Centaurea nigra)

Common Knapweed is very similar looking to the thistle. The stem of this common plant has many branches each one topped with a tight, neat head of reddish purple florets. The leaves are narrow and pointed. A firm favourite of our pollinating insects, Common Knapweed provides good source of nectar, not only for our Bees but for butterflies and beetles its seeds also provide food for many birds. It can be found in typical meadowland and roadside verges.