Devil's-bit Scabious
succisa pratensis
Also known as: ["Scabiosa succisa","Scabiosa pratensis"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its distinctive blue-purple flowers and rounded leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Succisa |
| Botanical Name: | Succisa pratensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, woodland edges, or garden borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter; prefers loamy or peaty conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); prefers morning sun and afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid intense midday sun; provide dappled light in hot climates; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; stop in winter; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is the most reliable method for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly.
- Maintain moisture until established.
Best Time: Early spring or autumn when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, full establishment in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor; use clean tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers; trim back leggy stems; divide clumps if overcrowded.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; thin out crowded growth to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean knife.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged growth; sanitize tools; prune after flowering; remove spent blooms.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown specimens.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for moisture retention; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost; provide insulation with mulch; move potted plants indoors during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSuccisa pratensis is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would cause harm to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSuccisa pratensis is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or toxic compounds in this plant that would harm canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSuccisa pratensis, commonly known as devil's bit scabious, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic compounds or physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Devil's-bit Scabious attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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