Centaurea rupestris, commonly known as Rock Knapweed, is a deciduous perennial herb native to rocky slopes and grasslands in Italy and the Balkans. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). The plant has a clumping form with deeply lobed leaves and thistle-like yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, offering a moderate level of showiness. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the ecological value of the plant.

Rock Knapweed is appreciated for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and restoration projects. It is also used in wildflower meadows and as a border plant in gardens. This knapweed prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it is not known for having aggressive roots or being particularly prone to diseases, it can self-seed and spread if not managed, which should be considered when planting in gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0