About

A biennial or short-lived clump-forming perennial to around 35cm in height, with semi-evergreen, lance-shaped grey-green divided leaves. Pink flowers appear on stems above the foliage from mid-summer through to early autumn.

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 hardinessH5

Plant details

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

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in a sunny position
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering, cut down stems in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free