Field Scabious
Knautia arvensis
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Description
Field Scabious is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, renowned for its lavender-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it serves as a valuable pollinator attractor, especially for bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in food forests and meadows. Its deep taproot system improves soil aeration and structure, aids in erosion control, and facilitates nutrient cycling. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. In a food forest, it functions as a ground cover layer, complementing taller plants like fruit trees and shrubs. Guild companions include yarrow and clover, which enhance soil fertility and attract beneficial insects.
Growing Details
Field Scabious thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, preferring sandy or loamy textures. Prepare soil by incorporating organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like yarrow and clover can improve soil health and attract beneficial insects. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest flowers when fully open for optimal color and fragrance. Store dried flowers in a cool, dark pla
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Knautia arvensis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of Jun for 90 days
Harvest:
middle
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
beginning
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The young leaves of Field Scabious can be used sparingly in salads or as a garnish. They are not widely consumed due to their slightly bitter taste.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Field Scabious has been used in herbal medicine to treat skin conditions, respiratory issues, and digestive problems. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. The leaves and flowers can be made into a poultice or tea. Caution is advised as it may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
health concerns: May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
other uses: Field Scabious can be used in natural dyeing processes to produce a greenish-yellow color.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Knautia arvensis</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Knautia arvensis
common names: Field Scabious; Blue Buttons; Gypsy Rose
family: Caprifoliaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Knautia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / -10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender:
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.0 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Field Scabious thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, preferring sandy or loamy textures. Prepare soil by incorporating organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like yarrow and clover can improve soil health and attract beneficial insects. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest flowers when fully open for optimal color and fragrance. Store dried flowers in a cool, dark pla
Potential Disturbances: Field Scabious is generally resistant to pests but can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests naturally. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage mildew.
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