Succisa pratensis - Devil's-bit Scabious - (Dipsacaceae)

Devil's-bit Scabious is widespread and common throughout the UK and Ireland.

Devil's-bit Scabious

This member of the teasel family has a preference for damp places; it is frequently found near rivers and streams.

Devil's-bit Scabious

The leaves are narrow and sometimes have purplish blotches. Flowering occurs from June to October.

Devilsbit scabious is usually a little taller that Sheep's-bit Scabious (Jasione montana) , with which it is easily confused. Sheep's-bit Scabious is a member of the Campanulaceae family.

The picture on this page was taken in West Wales in July (bottom), and at Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve in Anglesey, North Wales in August (top).