“Scabiosa ‘Mariposa Blue’ is a charming perennial that graces British gardens with its delicate beauty and appeal to pollinators. Growing to a height of 30-45cm, it forms neat clumps of deeply lobed, dark green foliage adorned with intricate, lavender-blue pincushion-like flowers. These blooms, reminiscent of butterflies landing on stems, appear from late spring through to early autumn, providing a long-lasting nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Best planted in full sun and well-drained soil, ‘Mariposa Blue’ thrives in borders, rockeries, or containers, where its blooms can be admired up close. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells.

Maintenance for ‘Mariposa Blue’ is straightforward; deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the blooming season to encourage continuous flowering. Light pruning to remove any dead or damaged stems can be done in early spring. Feeding with a balanced fertilizer in spring supports healthy growth and enhances flower production.

Beyond its ornamental value, Scabiosa ‘Mariposa Blue’ plays a crucial role in supporting local bee populations by providing a reliable nectar source. Its resilience and ecological benefits make it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens across the UK, contributing to pollination efforts and enhancing biodiversity.”