Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' (Caucasian scabious 'Clive Greaves') — Clump forming

Overview

Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' is a clump forming perennial in the genus Scabiosa, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with finely divided leaves foliage. It typically grows around 0.6 metres tall. Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' 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, north eastern Turkey and northern Iran.

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 'Clive Greaves' is a perennial native to the Caucasus, north eastern Turkey and northern Iran that produces a sustained display through the summer into early autumn (June to September). It typically grows to around 0.6 metres and suits sites that offer some shelter from strong winds. Plant into a well-drained but moisture-retentive soil; neutral to alkaline pH is preferred. Position in full sun or partial shade where the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. The hardiness rating H5 indicates it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating typical winter conditions when given a sheltered aspect. In the garden it has a clear role at the front and middle of mixed borders and is grown specifically for cutting. A planting that keeps soil reasonably even in moisture and avoids exposed, windy ridges will preserve flowering stems through the season. For a straightforward border scheme, pair with other summer-flowering perennials that prefer neutral to alkaline soils to avoid pH conflicts. Stems make excellent cut flowers from June to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Scabiosa

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained
Soil pH: neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moist
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Finely divided leaves
Height: 0.6 metres
Suggested uses: borders, cut flowers
Native to: Caucasus, north eastern Turkey, northern Iran

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Deadhead to prolong flowering.
Pruning: Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
Propagation: seed,division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves'?

Prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Deadhead to prolong flowering.

Where is the best place to plant Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves'?

Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' need?

Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves'?

Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooming.

How big does Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' grow?

Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' reaches a height of 0.6 metres.

Is Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' hardy in the UK?

Scabiosa caucasica 'Clive Greaves' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.