Knautia Species, Field Scabious

Field scabious is an invasive species! It is capable of invading undisturbed plant communities and, once established, is very difficult ...Read Moreto eradicate. Before planting, please check your state and county noxious weed lists to be sure you are not adding to an already difficult problem. If you decide to plant, do so in a spot not adjacent to any natural area, and use care to prevent the seeds from spreading away from the site.

Perennial from Europe through to Siberia, Iran and Central Asia. Has over wintering, hairy rosettes of deep green, entire (smooth edged)...Read More or pinnately lobed leaves, stem leaves are pinnate. Bears small pincusion lilac sometimes pale purple flowers with the outer petals larger than the inner petals. Has clustered seed heads and each seed bears several strong, blackish hairs on the top.

Flowers June - October.

Native of dry grassland and open woodland, usually on limestone. Likes very well drained, slightly alkaline soils in full sun. Has a strong honey scent and is very attractive to necar seeking insects. Excellent cut flower and superb in a wild flower/life garden.