Scabiosa columbaria
small scabious
A branched perennial to 75cm, with simple or pinnately lobed leaves, the upper ones more divided, and light bluish-purple flowerheads 4cm across in summer and early autumn. A good choice for cut flowers
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Purple Blue | Green Grey Silver | ||
Autumn | Blue Purple | Green Grey Silver | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Scabiosa can be annuals, biennials or herbaceous or evergreen perennials, with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and characteristic flower-heads with enlarged outer florets
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Asia, Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in full sun and protect from winter wet
Propagation
Propagate by seed, division or take basal cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
- Gravel garden
- Prairie planting
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong flowering, cut down stems in autumn
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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