SCABIOSA

An unpleasent sounding name, scabiosa is derived from scabies a Latin  word for scurf or mange the itchiness of which was said to be relieved by rubbing the affected area with the leaves of these plants. The genus, a member of the teasel family (Dipsacaceae), is composed of around 80 spaces of annuals and perennials found from Europe and north Africa to Japan.

CULTIVATION

The Plants are hardy and easily grown in any sunny position with moderately fertile, moist, free draining slightlu alkaline soil. deadhead to  prolong flowering, the annuals are raised from seed and the perennials can be propagated from seed from basal cutting or by division.