Alpine Scabious
cephalaria alpina
Also known as: ["Alpine Scabious","Mountain Scabious"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with tall stems and lavender-pink flowers, native to alpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Cephalaria |
| Botanical Name: | Cephalaria alpina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open, airy space
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; topdress with compost annually; avoid compacting soil around roots.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights down to 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in winter to allow dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove any crossing or crowded growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged; ensure water penetrates the root ball; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or compost to improve drainage and aeration; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback if below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution rates; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCephalaria alpina is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCephalaria alpina is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCephalaria alpina is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Cephalaria alpina grow?
A: It typically grows to 1–1.5 meters in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, its alpine origins make it well-suited for rock gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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