Centaurea aspera, commonly known as Rough Star-Thistle, is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region, including Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and parts of Western Asia. It typically inhabits dry, open habitats such as grasslands, roadsides, and disturbed areas. This species is characterized by its spiny, thistle-like appearance with a typical height of 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) and a similar width. The Rough Star-Thistle produces purple or pinkish flower heads from late spring to early fall, which are surrounded by spiny bracts, giving the plant a formidable look. The flowers are moderately showy and attract a variety of pollinators.

Rough Star-Thistle is known for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it a low-maintenance choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. However, due to its invasive potential, it is not recommended for cultivation outside its native range. In areas where it is not invasive, it can be used for erosion control or as part of a wildlife garden. It requires full sun exposure and minimal water once established. There are no popular garden cultivars due to its invasive nature and potential to outcompete native vegetation. Gardeners should be aware of its aggressive self-seeding and the difficulty of removing it due to its deep taproot.CC BY-SA 4.0