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Herbaceous PerennialSynonym

Scabiosa japonica 'Blue Note'
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

A compact, clump-forming perennial with grey-green finely divided leaves. In summer and early autumn it produces a succession of pincushion-like, lilac-blue flowers with paler centres on thin stems held above the foliage.

Synonyms
Scabiosa japonica 'Blue Note'
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Grey Silver Green
Summer Blue Purple Grey Silver Green
Autumn Blue Purple Grey Silver Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Caprifoliaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun; ideal for chalky soils. Dislikes heavy wet soil.

Propagation

Propagate for home use by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or in spring. Propagate by division in spring or take basal semi-ripe cuttings. Lift and divide every three years to maintain vigour.

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back after flowering to keep bushy. Deadhead to prolong flowering.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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