About
A compact, herbaceous perennial to about 50cm in flower, forming a mound of mid-green leaves and producing large, pale blue, pincushion flowers over a long period from early summer to 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
FoliageDeciduous
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, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Gravel garden
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