About

A series of clump-forming perennials to around 60cm in height, with divided green foliage. Flowers, frilly on the edges, appear on thin stems above the foliage from summer to early autumn and come in shades of blue, lavender and white.

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, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in full sun, in any moist but free-draining soil, as long as it isn't too acidic
PruningNo pruning required. Deadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free