About
An annual with grey-green divided leaves, reaching 75cm. It has very dark red sweet-smelling flowers on long sturdy stems for up to four months through the summer.
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 moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in full sun, in any moist but free-draining soil, as long as it isn't too acidic.
PruningNo pruning required. Deadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free