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Description
Cephalaria gigantea, commonly known as Giant Scabious, is a species of flowering plant in the Caprifoliaceae family. It is a native of Central Asia and Europe, but it is widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world. The plant can reach a height of 5 to 6 feet and a width of 2 to 3 feet. It produces tall spikes of yellow flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Cephalaria |
Appearance
Cephalaria gigantea has a clump-forming habit with basal rosettes of long, lance-shaped leaves that are deeply lobed. The leaves are hairy and can grow up to 18 inches long. The plant produces tall, sturdy stems that can reach up to 6 feet in height. The stems are topped with large, domed flower heads that are up to 2 inches in diameter. The yellow flowers are long-lasting and attractive to bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Cephalaria gigantea is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Giant Scabious healthy:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week in dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Cephalaria gigantea prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cephalaria gigantea is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. Slugs and snails may also be a problem, especially in wet weather. To prevent these issues, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Cephalaria gigantea is native to Central Asia and Europe, where it grows in meadows, open forests, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cephalaria gigantea grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can grow in containers as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant and has good drainage.
Q: Does Cephalaria gigantea attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant’s yellow flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cephalaria gigantea?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring when new growth appears.
Q: Is Cephalaria gigantea deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Cephalaria alpina
- Cephalaria dipsacoides
- Cephalaria taurica
References
- “Cephalaria gigantea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278871&isprofile=0&
- “Cephalaria gigantea.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12429/Cephalaria-gigantea/Details
- “Cephalaria gigantea.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/grow-giant-scabious-1402408
