Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Small scabious: when and how to prune
Scabiosa columbaria
Small scabious is best pruned in March and June–September.
| Pruning months | March and June–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Small scabious: when to prune it?
From June to September, deadhead regularly. In March, clear away the old stems and dead leaves.
What else to prune in those months? March · June · July · August · September
Small scabious: how to prune it?
- Cut a faded head off with its stem, back to a leaf or a new bud.
- In September, let a few heads ripen if you want seed or seedlings.
- In March, cut the old stems back to just above the leaf rosette.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and June–September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Small scabious flowers in June–October, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Do not cut right down to the ground in autumn: the leaf rosette protects the crown in winter.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Small scabious · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.