About
This clump-forming perennial to 60cm in height, with entire grey-green basal leaves and incised stem leaves. Pale-centred lavender-blue flower heads 6-8cm in width are borne on erect stems.
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
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toCaucasus, Iran
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun; ideal for chalky soils. Protect from winter wet
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering; cut down stems in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or in spring. Propagate by division in spring or take basal semi-ripe cuttings; best lifted and divided every three years
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free