Devil's-Bit Scabious

Devil’s-bit Scabious is a slow growing, clump forming perennial. This is not an uncommon wild flower that thrives on soils lacking in nutrients and provides a late-summer flowering.

Uses

It provides a highly valuable late source of pollen and nectar for bees, butterflies and moths.

Persistence

This is not an uncommon wildflower however it has declined in parts of England nearly to the point of becoming threatened, due to it being a perennial it will grow back each year it just takes longer to establish.

Strengths

Devil’s-bit scabious is a great way to encourage pollinators to visit your wild flower area.

Frost Tolerance

This is a hardy, frost tolerant species.

Ideal Sowing Time

The seed is best sown in early spring.

Management

Some grassland management is required to maintain suitable habitat conditions for this species to thrive alongside other wildflowers.

Distinguishing characteristics

Seed
The seeds are long/pointed and covered in very fine hairs with an awn and are incredibly light.

Flowering Plant
A rather hairy perennial up to 3 feet high. Its florets are all the same length and have almost all untoothed leaves. The lowest leaves are long and rather narrow and up the stem are pairs of smaller leaves. The flower-heads are surrounded by 2 or 3 rows of hairy bracts, and at the base of each individual floret is a bract as well as a toothed calyx.

Additional Info

Flowers: July to October Some other names used for Devil's-bit scabious are blue buttons, blue caps, of-bit and blue kiss.

Works well with

Meadow buttercup and sheep's sorrel

You can find Devil's-Bit Scabious in the following mixtures

• Damp Meadow

History

Devil’s-bit Scabious has been used for many purposes over the years such as seasoning, dye, tea and medicinally to treat skin conditions. Its name is thought to come from its short root; the devil is said to have bitten it off in a rage at its ability to cure ailments!