PerennialsScabiosa caucasica
Caucasian Scabious
Caucasian Scabious is a charming perennial with large, pincushion-shaped flowers in soft blue to lavender on slender stems. Blooming generously from June to September, it is a magnet for butterflies and bees. Beautiful as a cut flower and in cottage-garden borders.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 40–60 cm
- Spread
- 30–45 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–9
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- blue, lavender
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, preferably alkaline soil. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging — the plant is susceptible to root rot. Apply a light dressing in spring. Moderately hardy and benefits from winter protection in cold regions.
Pruning tips
Deadhead consistently to extend flowering into autumn. Cut back old foliage in early spring. Divide every three years to maintain vigour — the old centre gradually dies off.
Good companions
PerennialsSalvia nemorosa
Woodland Sage
Woodland Sage is a compact perennial with striking purple-blue flower spikes blooming from June to August. It attracts plenty of bees and butterflies and works well in sunny borders. Cutting back spent flower stems often triggers a second flush of blooms.
PerennialsLeucanthemum vulgare
Oxeye Daisy
The oxeye daisy is a cheerful native perennial with the familiar white petals surrounding a golden centre. From June to August, this uncomplicated plant blooms profusely in any sunny garden. Oxeye daisies make excellent cut flowers and work well in both structured borders and wildflower meadows.
PerennialsGeranium 'Rozanne'
Geranium 'Rozanne'
Geranium 'Rozanne' is one of the longest-flowering perennials, producing bright blue-violet blooms from June until the first frost. It grows as a wide, low mound and makes an outstanding ground cover. Rozanne is tough, disease-free, and fits nearly any garden style.