Annual Scabious
scabiosa triandra
Also known as: ["Annual Scabious","Meadow Scabious"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant known for its delicate, lavender-blue flowers and feathery foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Scabiosa |
| Botanical Name: | Scabiosa triandra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- 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.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyEasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct midday sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering; stop during dormancy; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead regularly; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead or diseased parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day 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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth if outdoors; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScabiosa triandra is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicScabiosa triandra is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScabiosa triandra is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with its consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Scabiosa triandra grow?
A: It typically reaches 30-60 cm in height.
Q: Does Scabiosa triandra require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Scabiosa triandra suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires well-draining soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
