About
An annual with lance-shaped or pinnately lobed leaves and solitary pale blue flowers heads to 8cm across, followed by papery, globose, bronze seed-heads.
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 typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in gentle heat in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free