Small scabious, Scabiosa columbaria, is a pretty perennial native to the UK, bearing pale purple flowers on branched stems from early summer and well into autumn.
Scabiosa columbaria grows best in light, often nutrient-poor, calcareous soils, so makes a lovely addition to gravel gardens and sunny wildlife gardens – the flowers are especially popular with bees, butterflies and hoverflies. It also makes a great cut flower.
For best results, grow Scabiosa columbaria in full sun in well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil. Dead-head the flowers regularly to ensure a constant supply of blooms.
Ad
Plant calendar
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sow
yes
yes
yes
Plant
yes
yes
yes
yes
Flowers
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
Cut Back
yes
yes
Collect Seeds
yes
yes
Scabiosa ‘columbaria’ and wildlife
Scabiosa ‘columbaria’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and has seeds for birds.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is known to attract Birds
Birds
Is known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Scabiosa ‘columbaria’ poisonous?
Scabiosa ‘columbaria’ has no toxic effects reported.
