Jasione montana
sheep's bit
A clump-forming, native wildflower to about 20cm tall, found mostly in the west of the British Isles. The leaves are lobed, small and rather scrappy, with blue, pincushion flowers on upright stems appearing in late spring into summer. Provides nectar for small tortoiseshell and other butterflies
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Blue | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Campanulaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Jasione can be annuals, biennials or perennials with pincushion-like, spherical heads of small blue flowers
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows naturally in dry, sandy or rocky, acid soi, on banks, walls or cliffs. Needs well-drained soil in a sunny position
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Patio and container plants
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back after flowering if seed is not required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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