Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Black Knight'

sweet scabious

Eventual height & spread

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Black Knight'

sweet scabious

  • approx 75 seeds
  • £3.79
  • In stock (delivery within 2-3 working days)
Delivery options
  • Seed Packets (only) £2.99
  • Next/Named Day £10.99
  • Position: full sun
  • Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil
  • Rate of growth: average
  • Flowering period: June to August
  • Hardiness: hardy short-lived perennial


The deep purple-plum pincushion-like flower heads of this delightful sweet scabious, create a dazzling display throughout the summer.

Having a sweet scent and attracting butterflies and bees to the garden, they will also look great in a vase - especially when combined with lime greens.

Easy to grow, and perfect for beginners, Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Black Knight' are short-lived perennials that provide bold colour in the border, andwork particularly well in naturalised planting schemes.


  • Garden care:
    Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Protect young plants from slug damage by using environmentally friendly slug pellets or beer traps. Regular deadheading is crucial to prolong flowering, while cutting back faded flower stems in autumn helps maintain plant health.

    Additionally, provide a light mulch to protect the roots over winter and ensure the plant has enough space for good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.


    Sow shallowly in trays filled with good, moist but freely draining compost. Keeping the tray well watered, place in a warm, semi-shaded spot and keep temperatures around 20°C (68°F) until they have germinated. When large enough to handle, pot on into small pots and grow on at cooler temperatures. Gradually harden off before planting outside at 30-45cm (12-18in) intervals.


  • Sow: February to April
  • Goes well with