Pet Safe
moderate Care
Big Head Starthistle
Centaurea macrocephala Mussin-Puschkin ex Willdenow
Big Head Starthistle (Centaurea macrocephala Mussin-Puschkin ex Willdenow) is a perennial, herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae. It has attractive composite flower heads that can form dense clusters, and is native to eastern Mediterranean regions. Its leaves are divided into lobes and covered in thick hairs, and its large yellow flower heads can measure up to 6 cm in diameter. Its seeds can remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years and the plant can spread rapidly in disturbed areas. Grazing by animals helps keep this species in check.
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water Needs
high
Water Every
7-10 days
Sun Needs
full-sun
Growth
Low
Care Level
Low
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Pruning Time
How to Propagate
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Cutting
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Division
Divide root ball in spring, replant sections immediately
Layering Propagation
Bend stem to soil surface, cover lightly, roots form in 4-6 weeks
Plant Characteristics
Drought Tolerant
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Forgetful waterers
- •Homes with pets
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
Bloom Seasons
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place in the sunniest spot in your garden.
Watering
Requires frequent watering to maintain moist soil. Don't let the soil dry out completely.