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Herbaceous Perennial

Cephalaria alpina

A perennial to 1.8m tall with divided, toothed and hairy leaves and strong, upright, branching stems bearing pale yellow-cream flowerheads with pincushion-like centres in summer

Synonyms
Scabiosa alpina L.
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Cream Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Caprifoliaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Cephalaria are annuals or perennials with pinnately divided leaves and scabious-like flower-heads

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Alps

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a fertile, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Needs staking in exposed gardens; see staking perennials for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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