Giant Scabious

Cephalaria gigantea

annual2.5×1 mzone 3–7light shade

Profile

Family: Caprifoliaceae
Habit: annual
Height: 2.5 m
Spread: 1 m
Growth: medium
Lifespan: 10 years
First yield: after 2 years
Hardiness: zone 3–7
Shade tolerance: light shade
Soil: Sand, Silt
Soil moisture: moist – very wet
pH: 6 – 8
Synonyms: Giant scabious, Yellow scabious

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible1 of 10

Medicinal2 of 10

Other uses3 of 10

Growing

Cephalaria gigantea prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates a range of soil types including loamy and sandy soils with neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Water regularly during the growing season but avoid waterlogging. Propagate by seed sown in spring or autumn. Cut back flowering stems after bloom to encourage new growth. Provide staking in windy locations.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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