Devil's Bit Scabious, Devilsbit

Succisa pratensis

Physical Characteristics

Succisa pratensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, south and east from Norway to N. Africa, Siberia and the Caucasus.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Meadow; Hedgerow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - raw[7]. The tender young shoots are sometimes added to spring salads[7].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Demulcent Depurative Diaphoretic Diuretic Eczema Emmenagogue Expectorant Febrifuge Stomachic The herb is anthelmintic, demulcent, depurative, slightly diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, mildly expectorant, febrifuge and stomachic[4, 7, 9]. It makes a useful tea for the treatment of coughs, fevers and internal inflammations and is also a popular application externally to eczema and other cutaneous eruptions[4, 7]. A tincture of the plant is a gentle but reliable treatment for bruises, aiding quick re-absorption of the blood pigment[7]. The whole herb is collected in early autumn and dried for later use[4]. Good results have been achieved by using a distilled water from the plant as an eye lotion to treat conjunctivitis[7].

Known Hazards

None known