Overview
Succisa pratensis is a plant with a clump forming habit in the genus Succisa, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Succisa pratensis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildflower meadow.
About
Succisa pratensis, known as devil's-bit scabious or simply devil's-bit, is a flowering plant in the honeysuckle family Caprifoliaceae, formerly included in the teasel family Dipsacaceae. It is common throughout northern Europe and western Asia in heathland, unimproved damp grassland and chalk or limestone grassland, where it is restricted to nutrient-poor soils.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Succisa pratensis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Succisa
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand, Chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Succisa pratensis size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Succisa pratensis
- Propagation
- Seed, Softwood cuttings (basal)
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to slugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Succisa pratensis?
Succisa pratensis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Succisa pratensis need?
Succisa pratensis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam, sand and chalk. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Succisa pratensis hardy in the UK?
Succisa pratensis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Succisa pratensis?
Seed, Softwood cuttings (basal).
