About
This clump-forming, evergreen perennial producing tufts of silvery-green leaves and solitary, lilac to violet, pincushion flowers, 4cm across, on stiff, slender stems in summer.
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 typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toS Europe
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun and protect from winter wet
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering, cut down stems in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed, or division or take basal cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free