About
A short-lived, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with feathery divided mid-green leaves. Throughout summer and early autumn it produces pincushion-shaped perfumed flowers that rise on thin stems above the foliage. These are pale pink, with dark purple centres and white stamens.
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 pHAcid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
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, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun
PruningCut back stems after flowering
PropagationPropagate by division, or by seed sown with gentle heat in early spring.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews