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field scabiosa
Scientific Name: Knautia arvensis
Family: Dipsacaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual, Perennial
Other Names:
Field Scabious: A Detailed Look
Field Scabious, scientifically known as Knautia arvensis, is also commonly referred to as Field Scabiosa, Bachelor's Buttons, Gipsy Rose, and Bluebuttons.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- The plant has a rough and hairy stem.
- Historically, the plant was used as an herb, though specific applications and potential sensitivities are not detailed in this text.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Knautia arvensis (L.) Coult.
- Family: Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckle Family), formerly Dipsacaceae (Teasel Family)
- Synonyms: Scabiosa arvensis, Field Scabiosa
- Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies (Knautia arvensis subsp. arvensis is mentioned)
Distribution and Habitat
Knautia arvensis is native to Europe and parts of North Africa. It is often found in well-drained grasslands, meadows, fields, and along roadsides, preferring neutral to alkaline soils. It can tolerate dry to wet ground, but not flooded conditions.
Ecological Role
Field Scabious is considered an invasive or noxious weed in North America, where it has escaped cultivation. It competes with forage and pasture land. It is spread by seed and can produce around 2,000 seeds per plant.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It is a perennial plant, growing to a height of 25 cm to 1.5 m (approximately 10 inches to 5 feet).
- Stems are erect, hairy, and sparsely branched.
- Flowers are typically blue-violet with pink anthers, forming a flower-like head. Each flower consists of florets.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Field Scabious flowers from July to October, providing high-quality nectar for bees and butterflies. A single plant can produce up to 50 flowers at a time.
- It is a nectar source for small skipper butterflies.
- The Small Cabbage White butterfly (Pieris rapae) is known to visit the plant.
Quirky Facts
- The rough, hairy stem texture is said to resemble scabby skin, which may have contributed to its historical use in treating skin conditions.
- Field Scabious has florets with fewer petals compared to similar plants, and the calyx has 5 bristle-like teeth.
Further Information
For more information, you can consult resources from the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society), WebMD, Dave's Garden, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, and the CONN Herbarium.