North African Knapweed. Photo courtesy of Ron Vanderhoff.
A newly introduced invasive plant species, the North African Knapweed, has been discovered in parts of California, including Orange County and the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. This annual species belongs to the genus Centaurea in the sunflower family (Asteraceae) and originates from southwestern Europe and northern Africa.
Identifiable by its small pink-purple flowers and lobed leaves, the North African Knapweed is usually found in grasslands and disperses its seeds by wind. Flowering from April to December, this invasive species can degrade habitat for wildlife, exacerbate wildfire risks, and reduce overall biodiversity of Orange County’s native wildlands.
Identifiable by its small pink-purple flowers and lobed leaves, the North African Knapweed is usually found in grasslands and disperses its seeds by wind. Flowering from April to December, this invasive species can degrade habitat for wildlife, exacerbate wildfire risks, and reduce overall biodiversity of Orange County’s native wildlands.
Irvine Ranch Conservancy is looking for volunteers to help remove the invasive North African Knapweed during upcoming stewardship events in the City of Irvine’s Quail Hill. Join IRC staff and volunteers during “Pulling Together at Quail Hill” on Thursday, May 19 and Thursday, June 16 to help keep local habitats healthy by weeding this invasive species. To learn more about these events and to register, visit LetsGoOutside.org.
For more information about the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, visit IRConservancy.org or follow the Landmarks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
For more information about the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, visit IRConservancy.org or follow the Landmarks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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