Dipsacus fullonum
Wild scabious
Common names: Weaver's scabious, Venus bath
Photo: W. Bulach · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
The Wild scabious is a two‑year‑old perennial shrub that forms a low rosette in its first year and then shoots up to two metres tall in its second year. Its spiny, egg‑shaped flower heads appear from July to September in a delicate lilac colour and attract wild bees and bumblebees. After flowering the heads dry into distinctive brown seed heads that winter attract starlings and other granivorous birds. As an architectural plant it continues to add interest to a garden even in the cold season, and once established it tends to self‑propagate without becoming overly aggressive.
Care instructions
Wild scabious prefers a sunny to partially shaded spot with well‑drained, not overly poor soil. Water the young rosette during its first year when dry, then the plant tolerates low water levels well. Pruning is usually unnecessary; leave dried flower heads to provide winter food for birds and to secure self‑seed for the next year. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Because the spines are fairly robust, wear sturdy gloves when handling the plant.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, lean, dry, lime-loving
Feeding
Light feeder
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