Overview
Knautia integrifolia is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Knautia, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with deciduous or semi evergreen foliage. Knautia integrifolia grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Knautia integrifolia is a clump-forming cultivar of the Knautia genus, which includes both annual and perennial species with simple or pinnately lobed foliage and flower heads similar to scabious. This deciduous or semi-evergreen plant thrives in full sun and is suitable for south- or west-facing aspects, tolerating both exposed and sheltered conditions. It prefers well-drained, fertile moist soils such as chalk, loam, or sand with neutral to alkaline pH. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is ideal for cottage and informal gardens, wildlife gardens, and flower borders, offering interest in summer and autumn.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Knautia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Knautia integrifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous or Semi evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Knautia integrifolia
- Propagation
- Seed in pots in a cold frame in spring,Basal softwood cuttings in spring
- Pest resistance
- Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Knautia integrifolia?
Knautia integrifolia prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Knautia integrifolia need?
Knautia integrifolia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Knautia integrifolia hardy in the UK?
Knautia integrifolia has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Knautia integrifolia?
Seed in pots in a cold frame in spring,Basal softwood cuttings in spring.
More in the Knautia genus
- Knautia drymeia
- Knautia godetii
- Knautia macedonicaMacedonian scabious
- Knautia macedonica 'Crimson Cushion'
- Knautia macedonica 'Macedonia Lilac'
- Knautia arvensis white-flowered