Scabiosa Cretica

Description

Large flat lavender coloured flowers, up to 3cm across, appear from May through to July above pretty silver foliage and display the characteristic pincushion mound at the centre. Perhaps the most attractive feature of this plant, however, are the perfectly spherical seed heads that form after the flowers have faded: you will become incredibly popular with local flower arrangers! Reflecting its Cretan heritage, this plant is drought tolerant and will thrive in hot, dry, poor, well-drained soil and is a reliable performer in coastal areas. As with other Scabious, the butterflies and bees will be regular visitors.

Sowing Advice

Sow immediately at any time onto preferably a soil-based compost, covering with fine grit to approximately their own depth. Germination MAY be quicker if kept at 15 to 20 degrees C. but many seeds WILL NOT come up the year they are sown, needing winter chilling after sowing, and ONLY come up with natural spring germination.

Key Facts