Basket flower

Basket Flower (Centaurea americana) is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family, native to the southern and central regions of the United States. It is also commonly known as the American Star Thistle or American Basketflower.

Description

The Basket Flower is an annual plant that can grow up to 5 feet tall. The plant's stem is erect and branched, with alternate, deeply lobed leaves. The flowers, which bloom from May to July, are large and showy, with a basket-like structure formed by the bracts beneath the flower head, hence the common name.

Habitat and Distribution

The Basket Flower is found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and roadsides. It is native to the southern and central United States, with a range extending from Arizona to Florida and north to Illinois.

Cultivation and Uses

Basket Flower is often grown as an ornamental plant for its large, showy flowers. It is also used in wildflower mixes and for restoration of prairies and meadows. The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types.

Conservation Status

While the Basket Flower is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, its habitat is being lost to urban development and agriculture. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving existing populations and restoring its native habitat.

See Also

• Asteraceae
• Flora of the United States