Jasione montana

RHS Plant Profile
sheep's bit
sheep's bit visionspictures.com

Other common names

common sheep's bit scabious, clefryn

Annual Biennial

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

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical 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