Small Scabious is a
native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in chalky grassland and rocky areas, to a mature height of up to 80cm.
Small Scabious is named after its relatively short height and small flowers, in relation to other species of Scabious, and the plant's traditional medicinal use to treat the itch associated with scabies. Although similar in appearance, and closely related, it lies in a different genus to Field Scabious. Distinguishing features of the compound flowerhead of Small Scabious include: five (not four) petals to its flowers; outer flowers much larger than the central flowers, and petals deeply divided; and only one layer of whorled bracts beneath the flowerhead. Small Scabious is a dainty plant, attracting many pollinators and so it has been cultivated to make ornamental varieties for the garden.
Botanic classification and naming: Small Scabious is a member of the Teasel (Dipsacaceae) family. The genus name
'Scabiosa' identifies the plant as a Scabious and its species name 'columbaria' means 'dove-like (flower colour)'.
Benefits: Its nectar-rich flowers attract many butterflies, such as the Small Tortoiseshell, and moths, such as the Six-Spot Burnet.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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