Star Scabious (Lomelosia stellata)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates hot afternoon sun in cool temperate regions

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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; prefers temperate to warm conditions; protect young plants from heavy frost

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Leaf: Basal rosette of lanceolate, softly hairy leaves; stem leaves are smaller and deeply divided
Flower: Daisy-like composite blooms with pale pink to white star-shaped ray florets and yellow central disc florets
Stem: Slender, upright green stems covered in fine, soft hairs

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Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply balanced diluted fertilizer once monthly. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent leggy growth and reduced flowering

Banana peel tea：Soak chopped banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:10 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest infestations

Pruning

Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout summer
Cut back stems to the basal rosette after flowering to tidy the plant and promote healthy regrowth
Remove yellowing or damaged basal leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; used as cut flowers for floral arrangements