Scabiosa arvensis
field scabious
A clump-forming, deep-rooted perennial about 1.5m tall, with lax, softly bristly stems bearing simple or pinnately lobed, hairy green leaves, and lilac-blue flowerheads to 4cm across in summer and autumn
Other common names
bachelor's buttonsblack soap
see moreblue buttons
blue caps
clodweed
Egyptian rose
gypsies' rose
gypsy rose
lady's cushion
purple buttons
scabridge
Synonyms
Scabiosa arvensisScabiosa montana Mill.
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Blue Purple | Green | ||
Autumn | Blue Purple | Green | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Knautia can be annuals or perennials, and may have simple or pinnately lobed leaves and scabious-like flower-heads
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a moderately fertile, well-drained, preferably alkaline soil in full sun. Attractive to bees
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in spring or propagate by basal cuttings in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
Old flower stems can be cut down after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.