Avoid rich soil or overfertilizing as plants will grow lush at the expense of flower production. Scabiosa reaches 18 to 36 inches in height and is used as a border plant or for cut flowers. Plant seed 12 to 14 inches apart in sun in spring or summer. Scarlet sage grows 14 to 36 inches tall. It is used as a border or bedding plant.
Scarlet sage has short varieties that bloom early and tall varieties that bloom late.
Stock reaches a height of 24 to 30 inches. Best used as a bedding plant, stock also can be used as a source of fragrant cut flowers or for window gardens. It over-winters in protected areas. Plant seed 6 to 10 inches apart in sun. Strawflower grows to a height of 30 to 40 inches.