Flower Library
Scabious
Scabiosa · Caprifoliaceae
Scabious are the small pompon-like summer flowers with long slender stems. Ideal for loose, natural bouquets. Popular in bridal bouquets for movement and fine texture.
- Season
- June – July – August – September
- Vase life
- 5–9 days
- Latin name
- Scabiosa
- Colors
- Purple, Bordeaux, Pink, White, Black-burgundy
Season June to September. Main varieties: 'Black Knight' (almost black), 'Salmon Beauty' (apricot), 'Snowmaiden' (white).
Stems are thin and slender — give bouquets lightness and movement. In bridal bouquets as accent between main flowers, not as volume bearer.
Also beautiful as seed head (post-bloom) — looks almost like its own plant: small spheres on the stem.
Is Scabious toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Non-toxic
- Cats
- Non-toxic
- Dogs
- Non-toxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA). Larger ingested amounts may at most cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut at an angle.
- 02Water medium-deep, change every 2 days.
- 03Keep cool.
- 04Leave seed heads after bloom — still looks beautiful.
Frequently asked
- What do scabious symbolise in bridal bouquets?
- Romantic movement. Less formal than roses, they bring organic asymmetry to the bouquet.
- Which scabious colour is popular?
- Bordeaux and black-burgundy ('Black Knight') are the trendy varieties 2024–2026. Soft pink is the classic.
- How long do scabious last in the vase?
- About 5 to 9 days. Cutting at an angle, changing medium-deep water every 2 days and keeping them cool extends their life. Spent heads can stay on as seed heads.
- Are scabious toxic to cats or dogs?
- No. Scabious are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA). Large amounts may cause mild stomach upset as with any plant — as a cut flower they are harmless.