18 Popular Types Of Scabiosa Pictorial Guide

Scabiosa is a genus of flowering plants in the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae. The name Scabiosa is derived from the Latin word “scabies,” which means scabies, referring to the medicinal properties of the plant in treating skin conditions. This beautiful plant is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens all over the world.

Scabiosa plants are herbaceous perennials or annuals that typically grow to be about 1–3 feet tall. They have pinnately divided leaves and produce an abundance of flowers on tall, wiry stems. The flowers come in a range of colors, including white, pink, blue, and purple, and have a distinctive, pincushion-like shape that is beloved by gardeners and florists alike.

One of the most popular species of Scabiosa is Scabiosa caucasica, commonly known as the Caucasian pincushion flower. This species produces large, showy flowers in shades of blue, lavender, and pink and is widely cultivated for use in cut flower arrangements. Scabiosa columbaria, or the small scabious, is another popular species that produces delicate, lavender-blue flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Scabiosa plants are relatively easy to grow and require minimal maintenance. They prefer full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. They can be propagated from seed or by dividing mature plants in the spring or fall. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of neglect.

In addition to their ornamental value, Scabiosa plants have a number of medicinal uses. The dried roots and leaves of Scabiosa atropurpurea, also known as the sweet scabious, were traditionally used to treat skin conditions like scabies, eczema, and psoriasis. The plant was also believed to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties and was used to treat conditions like gout and rheumatism.

Overall, Scabiosa is a versatile and attractive plant that is well-suited for a variety of garden settings. Whether you’re looking to add color to a flower bed, attract pollinators to your yard, or simply enjoy the beauty of its distinctive flowers, Scabiosa is a plant that is sure to please.

Here are 18 Most Popular Types Of Scabiosa Pictorial Guide:

Scabiosa Maritima (Maritime Scabious)

Scabiosa Maritima, also known as Maritime Scabious, is an herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows in coastal regions and rocky habitats. It has distinctive lilac-blue or pink flowers that bloom in summer, attracting various pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This plant is often used in gardens or naturalistic landscapes for its ornamental value and ability to tolerate salty soils and windy conditions. Additionally, its leaves and roots have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Scabiosa Incisa (Incised-Leaved Scabious)

Scabiosa Incisa, also known as Incised-Leaved Scabious, is a species of flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. It is an herbaceous perennial that typically grows in clumps, reaching up to 60 cm in height. The plant produces a profusion of small, lavender-blue flowers on long stems from early summer to early autumn. The leaves are deeply incised, giving the plant a feathery appearance. Scabiosa Incisa is a popular garden plant and is often grown for its attractive flowers and foliage.

Scabiosa Gigantea (Giant Scabious)

Scabiosa Gigantea, commonly known as Giant Scabious, is a species of herbaceous perennial plant in the honeysuckle family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can grow up to 6 feet tall with large, showy lavender-blue flower heads that bloom in the summer. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees.

Scabiosa Drakensbergensis (Drakensberg Scabious)

Scabiosa Drakensbergensis, also known as Drakensberg Scabious, is a species of flowering plant native to the Drakensberg mountains in Southern Africa. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter tall and produces clusters of striking blue-violet flowers. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and ability to attract butterflies and bees. The herb is also employed in conventional medicine to treat a variety of diseases. The species is currently classified as endangered due to habitat loss and overgrazing by livestock.

Scabiosa Canescens (Hoary Scabious)

Scabiosa Canescens, also known as Hoary Scabious, is a flowering plant species in the honeysuckle family. It is a herbaceous perennial that is native to Europe and Western Asia, and it has become naturalized in North America. The plant typically grows to be about 1-2 feet tall and has gray-green leaves with clusters of small, lavender-pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant is commonly used in gardens as an ornamental plant and attracts bees and butterflies.

Scabiosa Graminifolia (Grass-Leaved Scabious)

Scabiosa Graminifolia, A species of perennial blooming plant belonging to the honeysuckle family Caprifoliaceae is frequently referred to as Grass-Leaved Scabious. It is characterized by its grass-like leaves and small lavender-blue flowers, which bloom from summer to early autumn. This plant is native to Europe and is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. It is often used in ornamental gardening and is also known to attract butterflies and bees.

Scabiosa Comosa (Tufted Scabious)

Scabiosa Comosa, commonly known as Tufted Scabious, is an herbaceous perennial plant with stunning blue-violet flowers that bloom in summer. This species is native to Europe and can be found in grasslands, meadows, and woodland clearings. Its attractive blooms make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color to their gardens. The plant’s tufted foliage and long, wiry stems make it an ideal choice for cut flower arrangements.

Scabiosa Cretica (Cretan Scabious)

Scabiosa Cretica, commonly known as Cretan Scabious, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Dipsacaceae family. It is native to the island of Crete in Greece and is known for its beautiful lilac flowers that bloom from June to September. The plant grows up to 50cm in height and prefers well-drained soil in sunny locations. It is a popular ornamental plant and is often used in rock gardens and borders. In addition, Scabiosa Cretica has been traditionally used in folk medicine to treat a range of ailments.

Scabiosa Triandra (Three-Stamen Scabious)

Scabiosa Triandra, commonly known as Three-Stamen Scabious, is a species of herbaceous perennial plant found in parts of Europe and western Asia. It grows up to 60 cm tall and has attractive pink or purple flowers that bloom from summer to early autumn. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and is also used in traditional medicine for various ailments.

Scabiosa Stellata (Starry Scabious)

Scabiosa Stellata, commonly known as Starry Scabious, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the honeysuckle family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and is characterized by its delicate star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, blue, and white. The plant typically grows to a height of 60–80 cm and blooms in the summer months. It is a popular choice for gardens, as it attracts bees and butterflies and is relatively low-maintenance.

Scabiosa Ochroleuca subsp. Ochroleucoides (White Scabious)

Scabiosa Ochroleuca subsp. Ochroleucoides, commonly known as White Scabious, is a subspecies of Scabiosa ochroleuca, a perennial flowering plant belonging to the honeysuckle family. It is native to Europe and produces delicate, white or cream-colored flowers with a distinctive pincushion shape that bloom in summer. The plant typically grows to a height of 30–90 cm and is often found in meadows, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping due to its attractive blooms and easy-to-grow nature.

Scabiosa Ochroleuca subsp. Pseudoschimperi (Yellow Scabious)

Scabiosa Ochroleuca subsp. Pseudoschimperi, commonly known as Yellow Scabious, is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. It has bright yellow flowers that bloom in mid-summer to early fall and is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant typically grows to a height of 30–90 cm and thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight.

Scabiosa Ochroleuca (Creamy Scabious)

Scabiosa Ochroleuca, commonly known as Creamy Scabious, is a species of flowering plant in the honeysuckle family. It is native to Europe and produces clusters of creamy yellow flowers on tall, slender stems. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, making it a popular choice for gardens and wildflower meadows. The Creamy Scabious is a valuable source of nectar for bees and butterflies, and its seeds provide food for birds.

Scabiosa Columbaria ‘Butterfly Blue’ (Butterfly Blue Scabious)

Scabiosa Columbaria ‘Butterfly Blue’, also known as Butterfly Blue Scabious, is a low-growing perennial plant with delicate, lavender-blue flowers that resemble fluttering butterflies. It blooms throughout the summer months, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. This species is known for its ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any garden ecosystem.

Scabiosa Columbaria (Small Scabious)

Scabiosa Columbaria, commonly known as Small Scabious, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Western Asia. It has a compact habit and produces small, pale blue or lavender flowers with a distinctive pincushion-like appearance, attracting butterflies and bees. Small Scabious is often found in meadows, grasslands, and open woods and is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

Scabiosa Caucasica (Caucasian Scabious)

Scabiosa Caucasica, commonly known as Caucasian Scabious, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the Caucasus region of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is grown for its attractive blue or lilac flowers which bloom in early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade, and can be grown in gardens or naturalized in meadows and woodland edges. Due to its medicinal qualities, it is also utilized in conventional medicine.

Scabiosa Atropurpurea (Sweet Scabious)

Scabiosa Atropurpurea, commonly known as Sweet Scabious, is a species of flowering plant that produces attractive deep purple or crimson flowers with a distinctive pincushion-like appearance. This biennial or short-lived perennial plant is native to Europe and is commonly cultivated in gardens for its ornamental value. It typically grows to a height of 30-60 cm and prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. The plant blooms from late spring to early autumn and is known to attract butterflies and bees to the garden.

Scabiosa Africana (African Pincushion)

Scabiosa Africana, commonly known as African Pincushion, is a flowering plant species native to South Africa. It belongs to the Dipsacaceae family and is known for its showy, spherical flower heads that are typically deep purple or blue in color. The plant is a favorite among gardeners and is often cultivated for its striking blooms and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It is also used in traditional medicine for its purported healing properties.

How To Grow and Care For Scabiosa

Scabiosa is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the honeysuckle family. They are commonly known as pincushion flowers because of their distinctive shape. Scabiosa plants are easy to grow and care for, and they produce lovely flowers that are great for adding color and interest to gardens and landscapes.
Here are some pointers for cultivating and maintaining scabiosa:

• Planting: Scabiosa plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Additionally, they favor full sun or some shade. Plant them in the spring or fall, and space them about 12 inches apart.

• Watering: Scabiosa plants prefer regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Once a week, or more frequently if the soil dries out quickly, water well.

• Fertilizing: Scabiosa plants do not need a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

• Pruning: Deadheading (removing spent flowers) will encourage more blooms and help prevent the plant from self-seeding. You can also trim back the plant by a third in midsummer to promote more compact growth.

• Pests and Diseases: Scabiosa plants are relatively pest- and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Take fast action to address any pest or disease issues to prevent them from spreading.

By following these simple steps, you can grow and care for Scabiosa plants successfully and enjoy their beautiful blooms for years to come.

How To Propagate Scabiosa

Scabiosa, also known as pincushion flower, is a beautiful plant that produces unique and striking flowers. Propagating scabiosa can be done through several methods, including seed propagation and division of established plants. Here are the steps to propagate S. scabiosa:

• Seed propagation: collect scabiosa seeds from mature plants in the fall. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in the spring, covering them lightly with soil. Lightly water the soil and maintain a constant moisture level. Seedlings should emerge within two to four weeks.

• Division: Divide an established scabiosa plant in the spring or fall. Gently dig up the plant, being careful not to damage the roots. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the plant into sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, water well, and keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.

• Cuttings: Take stem cuttings from a healthy scabiosa plant in the spring or early summer. Cut a inch stem with a few leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it consistently moist. The cutting should root in two to four weeks.

Overall, propagating scabiosa can be a rewarding experience that allows you to expand your garden and enjoy the beauty of these unique flowers.

Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Scabiosa

Q: What is Scabiosa?

A: The honeysuckle family includes a genus of flowering plants called Scabiosa. It is commonly known as the pincushion flower due to its unique, spherical flowerheads that resemble pins stuck into a pincushion.

Q: How do I care for Scabiosa plants?

A: Scabiosa plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They also require regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Over the course of the growing season, deadheading spent blooms will promote new blooming.

Q: When do Scabiosa plants bloom?

A: Scabiosa plants typically bloom from early summer to late fall, depending on the species and climate. The flowers are usually shades of pink, purple, or white, and attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Q: Can Scabiosa plants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Scabiosa plants can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight and water. The compact size of some Scabiosa varieties makes them ideal for container gardens.

Q: Are Scabiosa plants easy to grow?

A: Scabiosa plants are generally easy to grow, but they may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or if drainage is poor. They may also be prone to aphids and other pests, so it is important to monitor the plants and take appropriate action if necessary.

Top 10 Interesting Facts About Scabiosa

1. Scabiosa is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caprifoliaceae, commonly known as the pincushion flower.
2. The genus Scabiosa includes about 80 species of annuals, biennials, and perennials that are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa.
3. The name Scabiosa is derived from the Latin word “scabies,” meaning itch, referring to the plant’s historic use in treating skin diseases.
4. Scabiosa flowers come in a range of colors, including white, pink, lavender, blue, and purple, and they typically have a distinctive pincushion-like shape.
5. Scabiosa flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and they are often used in gardens and landscapes to attract these beneficial insects.
6. In addition to their ornamental value, Scabiosa plants have medicinal properties and have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including respiratory and digestive problems.
7. Some species of Scabiosa are considered invasive in certain regions, including the United States, where they can spread rapidly and outcompete native plants.
8. Scabiosa plants are relatively easy to grow and are tolerant of a range of soil types and growing conditions.
9. The seeds of Scabiosa plants can be sown directly in the garden or started indoors and then transplanted.
10. Scabiosa plants are often used in cut flower arrangements, as they have a long vase life and add a unique texture and color to floral displays.