General Culture:
Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Prefers neutral to alkaline soils. Locate in areas protected from wind. Promptly remove spent flowers to promote additional bloom. Plants perform best in climates with cool summer nights. Species plants in particular often struggle in the heat and humidity of the deep South where tall stems tend to twist and flop in the heat of the summer. ‘Mars Midget’ generally holds up better than the species because of its dwarf growth habit. This is generally a short-lived perennial. It may be grown from seed and may naturalize in the garden by self-seeding in optimum growing conditions.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
‘Mars Midget’ is a dwarf, clump-forming knautia seed strain that features domed, scabiosa-like, ruby-red flower heads (to 2” across) over a long early summer to autumn bloom period. Each flower head resembles a pin cushion subtended by a ring of bristly involucre bracts atop generally leafless stems. ‘Mars Midget’ is noted for its dwarfing habit, typically producing thin, branching stems rising to only 16” tall (species plants grow to 24-30” tall). This smaller habit generally results in a sturdier plant than the species. Basal leaves are pinnatifid and stem leaves are simple to pinnatifid. Species plants are synonymous with and formerly known as Scabiosa rumelica.
Problems:
No significant insect or disease problems. Aphids may occur.
Uses:
Mass in borders, cottage gardens, meadows or naturalized areas.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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