Small scabious - Scabiosa columbaria (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Small scabious

Also known as: Dove pincushions, Pigeon's scaboius

Dwarf pincushion flower (Scabiosa columbaria) is a flowering perennial native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. It blooms longer in summer than most other species, thanks to its long taproot that extracts water from deep in the water table.

Scientific classification

Species

Small scabious (Scabiosa columbaria)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

4 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Purple, Blue, Pink, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Purple, Blue

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Small scabious

Distribution of Small scabious

Distribution Map

Small scabious is native to parts of Europe, Asia and Africa . It has only been introduced to a handful of northeastern US states. It prefers pastures and banks with soil rich in calcium carbonate.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry calcareous pastures, banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Small scabious is a rather short-lived perennial that is somewhat common in spring or summer flower beds. Because it grows well in poor-quality soils, small scabious is frequently grown in gravelly areas such as borders and gravel beds. It is very suitable for cottage-style and wild gardens due to its wildflower look and appeal to bees and butterflies. Mix it with other cottage-garden plants, such as salvias, sedum, or low-growing roses, for the best effect.

Symbolism

Love, purity and peace

Name Story

Small scabious: This plant is shorter and more compact than the field scabious. This makes it the ideal plant for smaller gardens or to place it in front of a flower bed. Therefore, it is called small scabious.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Small scabious, including the following common varieties :

Small scabious 'Pink Mist'Small scabious 'Butterfly Blue'

Care Guide for Small scabious

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from various habitats, small scabious flourishes in consistently moist soil, requiring weekly watering. It prefers outdoor growth, mimicking its natural light and rainfall conditions, which are crucial for its blooming cycle. Avoid extremes of drought or waterlogging for optimal health.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, small scabious requires balanced fertilizer in spring and summer, applying high phosphorus in early spring every 4-6 weeks. Reduce feeding in autumn and always water after fertilizing. Liquid fertilizers are recommended for beginners, promoting health, flowering, and resilience against diseases.

Pruning: Small scabious features delicate pincushion flowers and thrives with routine pruning in early to late spring. Deadheading and trimming one-third of the plant promote vigorous growth, continuous blooming, and enhance overall health and aesthetics, while preventing legginess.

Propagation: Small scabious is easily propagated by sowing in Spring. Successful propagation is indicated by seedlings with bright green leaves requiring no special techniques.

Repotting: Repot small scabious every 2-3 years in early spring to promote growth, using a pot 2 inches larger for optimal drainage. Maintain consistently moist soil and provide full sun to part shade post-repotting for vibrant blooms.

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Images of Small scabious

Distribution of Small scabious

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for Small scabious

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