Scabiosa

These are hardy perennial and annual herbaceous plants that are used for cut flowers as well as garden decoration. The name Scabiosa is derived from scabies, itch; in regard to the plant's supposed properties of curing irritation of the skin. These plants have upright growth, 2 to 3 feet in height. Their leaves are lanceolate and coarsely toothed, growing up to 4 inches long. They grow mostly at the base of the plant. The fragrant flowers are 2 to 3 inches across and are domed with stamens, resembling miniature pincushions. They come in reddish purple, pink, salmon, rose, or violet blue. Picking off the dead flowers increases bloom.

Pot Cultivation

These plants will do best in deep, rich soil. On soil that is heavy, they are likely to die during the winter. They should be planted in the spring. The soil should be firmed around the roots and they should be set in groups of three. They should be planted 18 inches apart. Remove the flowers as they die to prolong the blooming season. These plants can also be grown in a greenhouse. They are planted in 6- or 7-inch pots filled with rich, well drained soil. They are exposed to full sun and when the pots are filled with healthy roots, applications of dilute liquid fertilizer are given once a week.

Propagation

Start seeds inside, 8 to 10 weeks before it's safe to plant outdoors. The temperature should be 70 to 75 degrees and the soil should be light and sandy. The seeds may also be sown directly outdoors where they are to grow when the soil is warm. They can be increased by dividing the plants in the spring. Lift the old clumps and separate into small portions, each consisting of two or three shoots with roots attached. Old, straggling plants can often be restored this way.

S. caucasica

VARIETIES

These aren't hardy during severe weather, however, they may be planted in a cold frame and protected during the winter. -

• S. caucasica (the Caucasian Scabous) & varieties Diamond, Isaac House, Miss Willmott, Perfecta & Clive Greaves;
• S. graminifolia (Grass-leaved Scabious);
• S. ochroleuca (Webbiana).
  Annual -
• S. atropurpurea (the Sweet Scabous).