Caprifoliaceae
Small Scabious: Full Sun Plant
Scabiosa columbaria
Small Scabious is extremely easy to care for, provided it is given a full-sun location with well-drained, alkaline soil. Regular deadheading of spent blooms encourages continuous flowering until autumn.
Every 7 days
Direct sun
-25° - 35°C
30% - 70%
Categories
What is Small Scabious?
Small Scabious (Scabiosa columbaria) is a easy-care plant from the Caprifoliaceae family. Scabiosa columbaria, commonly known as Small Scabious, is a charming perennial known for its cushion-shaped, lavender-blue flowers. It is an excellent plant for rock gardens and wildflower meadows, as it acts as a magnet for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant forms a basal rosette o...
Small Scabious grows up to 60cm, spread of 40cm, watering every 7 days, -25°C – 35°C, 30–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Small Scabious tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Small Scabious is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Small Scabious?
TLDR: Small Scabious needs Direct sun, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between -25-35°C with 30-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Small Scabious?
Water only when the top layer of soil is dry. The plant tolerates short periods of drought well but is sensitive to waterlogging.
How Much Light Does Small Scabious Need?
Choose the sunniest spot in the garden; shade leads to weak stems and fewer flowers.
What Is the Best Soil for Small Scabious?
Prefers lean, well-drained, and lime-rich soils; heavy clay soils should be loosened with sand or gravel.
What Pot Should You Use for Small Scabious?
A deep terracotta pot with excellent drainage is ideal if the plant is not being planted directly into a garden bed.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Small Scabious and Where Does It Come From?
Scabiosa columbaria, commonly known as Small Scabious, is a charming perennial known for its cushion-shaped, lavender-blue flowers. It is an excellent plant for rock gardens and wildflower meadows, as it acts as a magnet for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant forms a basal rosette of pinnately lobed leaves from which long, wiry flower stems emerge.
How to Propagate Small Scabious?
Sowing
- Early indoor sowing starting in March allows for flowering in the first year.
- 1 Preparation
Sow seeds in seed-starting mix and cover only lightly with soil, as they require light to germinate.
- 2 Germination
Keep consistently moist in a bright location at approximately 64-68°F (18-20°C).
- 3 Planting Out
Once the seedlings are strong enough and there is no longer a risk of frost, transplant them outdoors.
Materials needed:
Division
- Dividing the plant every 3-4 years rejuvenates it and maintains its flowering vigor.
- 1 Digging Up
Carefully lift the entire root ball with a spade.
- 2 Separating
Divide the plant into several sections with sufficient roots using a sharp knife or your hands.
- 3 Planting
Immediately plant the sections in their new location and water well.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Small Scabious Grow?
TLDR: Small Scabious can reach up to 60cm tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
60cm
Spread
40cm
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Semi-evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
In the language of flowers, it often represents unfortunate love or longing, but today it is more appreciated as a symbol of a love for nature.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Red valerian | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
