About
In summer and early autumn it produces large lavender-blue flowers on thin stems above the foliage. A clump-forming compact perennial, with mid-green leaves. Blooms are frilly at the edges, fading to pale lavender-white at the centre.
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
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
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 in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or in spring. Propagate by division in spring or take basal semi-ripe cuttings. Lift and divided every three years to maintain vigour
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free