Scabiosa japonica, commonly known as Japanese Scabious, is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb native to grasslands and open woodlands in central and southern Japan. It typically grows to a height of 4 to 20 inches. The plant features deeply lobed leaves and round flower heads that bloom in summer, with colors ranging from pale lavender to deep blue. The flowers are notably attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Japanese Scabious is valued for its charming flowers and ability to attract beneficial insects to the garden. It is often used in border plantings, cottage gardens, and as part of pollinator-friendly landscapes. This species prefers well-drained soil, moderate watering, and thrives in full sun to part shade. Cultivars like ’Blue Note’, ’Blue Star’, ’Blue Diamonds’, ’Ritz Blue’, and ’Ritz Rose’ offer gardeners a variety of color options. While generally easy to maintain, Scabiosa japonica can be susceptible to powdery mildew and should be monitored for this disease. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooming and maintain plant vigor.CC BY-SA 4.0