Introducing...
Knautia
Botanical name: Knautia
Common name: field scabious, Macedonian scabious
Knautia are informal annuals and perennials with pincushion-like flowers that are very attractive to bees and butterflies. They are perfect for cottage gardens, wildlife areas and naturalistic planting schemes, offering a long season of meadowy charm.
Looks
Typically upright and airy, Knautia plants produce slender stems topped with rounded flower heads in shades of cream, mauve, pink, crimson or purple. The foliage is soft and often lightly hairy, forming a low clump at the base which often overwinters.
Likes
Knautia thrive in full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soils. They do especially well where competition is low and conditions are open. Deadheading prolongs the flower display.
Dislikes
Heavy, waterlogged soils and overly shady positions can lead to weak, floppy growth and reduced flowering. Poor airflow may encourage mildew.
Did you know?
The field scabious (Knautia arvensis), native to Great Britain and Ireland, is a magnet for marbled white and meadow brown butterflies.
Growing guide
How to grow perennials
All the information you need to grow and care for Knautia in your garden
Knautia we recommend
Knautia macedonica Melton pastels
Macedonian scabious Melton pastels
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Knautia macedonica 'Mars Midget'
Macedonian scabious 'Mars Midget'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Knautia macedonica Melton pastels
Macedonian scabious Melton pastels
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Knautia macedonica 'Mars Midget'
Macedonian scabious 'Mars Midget'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Perennials: planting
Picking and deadheading flowers
Plants for pollinators
Wildflower meadow maintenance
Get involved
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