Devil's-bit Scabious is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its striking blue to violet flower heads that attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. In agroecological systems, it plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and enhancing pollinator populations, which are vital for the pollination of many food crops. Its deep root system aids in soil stabilization, nutrient cycling, and improving soil structure, making it an excellent choice for erosion control. In a food forest, it serves as an understory plant, contributing to a balanced ecosystem by providing habitat and food for wildlife. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Guild companions include yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and clover (Trifolium spp.), which enhance its growth and ecological benefits.
Growing Details
Devil's-bit Scabious thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like yarrow and clover can enhance its growth. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Seeds require cold stratification for effective germination. Harvest seeds in late summer when the flower heads dry.
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Succisa pratensis</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:
beginning
of July for 90 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Devil's-bit Scabious has been used in herbal medicine to treat skin conditions, respiratory issues, and digestive problems. The roots and leaves are used in infusions or poultices for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Caution is advised as some individuals may experience skin irritation.
health concerns: Potential skin irritation for sensitive individuals.
other uses: The plant can be used as a natural dye, producing a blue color.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Succisa pratensis</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Succisa pratensis
common names: Devil's-bit Scabious; Blue Buttons; Devil's
family: Caprifoliaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Succisa
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.3 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(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: Devil's-bit Scabious thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like yarrow and clover can enhance its growth. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Seeds require cold stratification for effective germination. Harvest seeds in late summer when the flower heads dry.
Potential Disturbances: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally be affected by aphids or slugs. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use copper barriers or organic slug pellets to manage slugs. Companion planting with garlic or chives can also deter pests.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Loading comments...