About
An annual or short-lived perennial with erect, branching stems to 60cm in height and pincushion flowerheads to 5cm across, flowering from midsummer into the autumn. The very dark purple flowers appear almost black, have a dainty scent, and may be followed by bristly seedheads.
About the 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
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Coastal, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun
PruningDeadhead to encourage more blooms, and cut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in gentle heat in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free