Involved in recognition of centromeres and centromeric localization of the centromere-specific histone CENH3. Required for normal progression of mitosis and meiosis. May play a role in the determination of the epigenetic status of centromeres (PubMed:24014547). Binds DNA and RNA in vitro (PubMed:28062749). Localizes at centromeres during all stages of the mitotic cell cycle, except from metaphase to mid-anaphase (PubMed:24014547). Colocalizes with CENH3 at centromeres in interphase nuclei (PubMed:24014547, PubMed:28062749). Expressed in shoot apical meristem, leaf primordia, basal parts of emerging leaves, inflorescence meristems, young inflorescences, developing flower buds, developing sepals and pistils, styles and young siliques. Reduced growth, abnormal leaf shape, defect in mature pollen grain formation and aborted seeds, due to defects in mitosis and meiosis. Belongs to the KNL2 family.