Knautia arvensis - Field Scabious - (Dipsacaceae)

This tallish, hairy perennial is actually a member of the teasel family, as are the many other scabious species. Field Scabious is widespread throughout the UK and Ireland except for the far north.

Field Scabious is also common, along with other very similar species, in Europe and we have photographed it in Slovenia in the Triglav National Park.

A closeup picture of Field Scabious

This pretty wildflower is varies in colour from pale pink to pale mauve.

The name scabious comes from scabiosa herba - the scabies herb, but other common names are the Pincushion flower and Lady's Pincushion.

You are more likely to see field scabious growing on dryish soil, so open places are preferred to woodland edges.