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Herbaceous Perennial

Scabiosa columbaria subsp. ochroleuca
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

pale yellow scabious

A clump-forming herbaceous perennial of dainty character. Leaves are narrow, oval, toothed and grey-green. In summer it bears branching, wiry stems of many pale yellow flowers in the typical petalled, pincushion style of this genus

Synonyms
Knautia ochroleleuca
Scabiosa ochroleuca
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Yellow Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Caprifoliaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
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

Grows best in , well-drained fertile soil, preferably alkaline, in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn or by basal cuttings in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

Cut back in autumn

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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