Rhaponticum scariosum rhaponticum

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

UPDATE 21/11/2011: Rhaponticum scariosum subsp. rhaponticum (L.) Greuter was originally in the database as Leuzea rhapontica (now a synonym). There is also a suggestion it has again changed it's name to Stemmacantha carthamoides although we haven't confirmed this.

Rhaponticum scariosum rhaponticum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.8

Where it is found

Sub-alpine and alpine meadows.

Europe.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

Purgative.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Succeeds in ordinary garden soil. Prefers a deep well-drained moderately fertile soil in full sun. There are 3 sub-species of this species, 2 of them are calcicole (growing well in alkaline soils), whilst the third, L. rhapontica rhapontica, is calcifuge and requires a lime-free soil.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in early spring in a cold frame and only just covering the seed. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.

Best place to grow:

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Centaurea rhaponticum. L. Rhaponticum scabiosa. Leuzea rhapontica