Small Scabious
Scabiosa columbaria
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Description
Small Scabious is a perennial herbaceous plant recognized for its delicate, pincushion-like flowers that attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. In agroecological systems, it serves as a valuable component of a pollinator-friendly guild, enhancing biodiversity and supporting ecosystem services. Its deep root system aids in soil aeration and erosion control, making it an excellent choice for regenerative agriculture practices. Historically, it has been used in traditional European medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory properties. In a food forest, it functions as a ground cover layer, providing habitat for beneficial insects and contributing to soil health.
Growing Details
Small Scabious thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Prior to planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include lavender and yarrow, which enhance pollinator attraction. Avoid overwatering, as it prefers dry conditions once established. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming. Harvest seeds in late summer when they are dry
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>Scabiosa columbaria</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 western Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
middle
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Small Scabious has been used in herbal medicine to treat skin conditions and respiratory issues. The leaves and flowers are believed to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. It is typically prepared as a tea or infusion, though caution is advised as its use is not widespread in modern herbal practices.
health concerns: Consult a healthcare provider before using Small Scabious medicinally, especially if pregnant or nursing.
other uses: Small Scabious can be used as a natural dye plant, producing a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Scabiosa columbaria
common names: Small Scabious; Dwarf Scabious; Pincushion
family: Caprifoliaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Scabiosa
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.3 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Small Scabious thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Prior to planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include lavender and yarrow, which enhance pollinator attraction. Avoid overwatering, as it prefers dry conditions once established. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming. Harvest seeds in late summer when they are dry
Potential Disturbances: Small Scabious is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids or powdery mildew in humid conditions. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or a garlic spray as an organic solution for mildew. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help deter pests naturally.
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