Overview
Scabiosa caucasica is a perennial in the genus Scabiosa, part of the Caprifoliaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 metres tall. Scabiosa caucasica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and cut flowers. It is native to Caucasus and Iran.
About
Scabiosa caucasica is a perennial that typically grows to about 0.6 metres and provides an extended flowering period from June to September. It prefers full sun or partial shade and performs best in well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil with moderate moisture. Give plants a sheltered position and note its hardiness rating of H5. It is commonly used in borders and as a source of cut flowers.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lomelosia caucasica
About the genus
Scabiosa is a genus in the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) of flowering plants. Many of the species in this genus have common names that include the word scabious, but some plants commonly known as scabious are currently classified in related genera such as Knautia and Succisa; at least some of these were formerly placed in Scabiosa. Another common name for members of this genus is pincushion flowers.
Wikipedia contributors, "Scabiosa", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Scabiosa
In the garden
Scabiosa caucasica belongs to the Caprifoliaceae and is native to the Caucasus and Iran. As a perennial reaching roughly 0.6 metres, it produces a reliable run of blooms between June and September, making it a useful summer-to-early-autumn presence in temperate gardens. Plant where it will receive full sun or partial shade, in well-drained soil of neutral to alkaline reaction. It prefers moderate soil moisture and benefits from a sheltered aspect to reduce exposure to strong winds. The H5 hardiness rating indicates it is classed as hardy for much of the UK when sited appropriately. Place it in mixed borders where its height and flowering period complement other summer perennials, or grow in a dedicated cutting patch to supply fresh blooms. Its habit and seasonal timing suit middle or rear border positions at around 0.6 metres tall, and cutting stems during the June–September period makes best use of the flowering season.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Scabiosa
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Scabiosa caucasica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Height
- 0.6 metres
- Suggested uses
- borders, cut flowers
- Native to
- Caucasus, Iran
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Scabiosa caucasica
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Deadhead to prolong flowering.
- Pruning
- Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Scabiosa caucasica?
Grow in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Deadhead to prolong flowering.
Where is the best place to plant Scabiosa caucasica?
Scabiosa caucasica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Scabiosa caucasica need?
Scabiosa caucasica grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Scabiosa caucasica?
Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
How big does Scabiosa caucasica grow?
Scabiosa caucasica reaches a height of 0.6 metres.
Is Scabiosa caucasica hardy in the UK?
Scabiosa caucasica has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Scabiosa caucasica?
Seed, division.
