About
A hardy annual or short-lived perennial to around 50cm in height, with green, divided leaves. Strong, tall stems produce dark blue pincushion flowerheads from midsummer until the autumn. A great plant for flower arranging.
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 typeAnnual Biennial, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun; ideal for chalky soils. Dislikes heavy wet soil
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering. Cut back after flowering in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free