Scabiosa drakensbergensis

Scabiosa drakensbergensis originates from the Drakensberg mountain range in South Africa. It is a perennial herbaceous plant, grown as an annual in our climate. Its rustic appearance brings lightness to flower beds, and its small white pompom-shaped flowers continuously bloom from July to October, attracting many pollinators. Its long stems and long-lasting flowers are ideal for bouquets. It is the perfect choice for cottage gardens.

Scabious plants are all discreet and graceful. They have a base composed of a tuft of lanceolate leaves that are deeply lobed, depending on the species. It develops long stems, from 50 to 90cm (20 to 35in) tall. As you go up along these stems, the leaves become sessile, lobed, and progressively smaller until reaching the head. The head is always globular in shape (4 to 5cm (2in)) with prominent stamens, as if stuck in this pompom, which gives it the nickname pincushion flower. However, its shape also varies depending on the species: it can be very round, dense, and bristly or more flattened, with silky and crumpled petals around the edge, as in Scabiosa drakensbergensis. This tall scabious is best planted in small groups, scattered among grasses or larger flowers, to bring a luminous touch, like a snowfall in flower beds. It prefers sunny locations that encourage its flowering. It can tolerate various types of soil, sometimes even calcareous, as long as they are sufficiently moist and well-drained. Pick the flowers to encourage the renewal of flowering, or let them dry to create a winter decoration with their small ball-shaped fruits. They may self-sow.

The immaculate colour of this variety fits in well with summer flower beds. It creates a contrast with its darker companions, such as 'Purple Rain' sage or 'Black Peony' poppy. It also complements a pastel palette alongside cosmos, phlox, and yarrow. It is easy to grow and floriferous, and actively contributes to the life of the garden by responding to the slightest breeze and serving as a food source for butterflies and other pollinators.