The sheep's bit, also known by its Latin name Jasione montana, is a special native wildflower with spherical, blue-purple flower heads. This biennial plant mainly occurs on dry, poor sandy soils and heathlands. With its compact growth habit and striking colour, sheep's bit is a real eye-catcher! The flowers attract many insects, including solitary bees and hoverflies.
For what purposes can I use sheep's bit?
Sheep's bit is ideal for use in:
Wild flower meadows on sandy soil
Dry grasslands
Dunes
Rock gardens
Green roofs
In pots
Because it thrives on nutrient-poor, dry soils, it contributes to biodiversity in places where other plants often fail. Combine it with species such as mouse-ear hawkweed, yarrow and restharrow for a flowering whole that requires little maintenance.
What are the characteristics of sheep's bit?
Native, biennial plant
Compact plant with spherical, blue-purple flowers
Suitable for dry, nutrient-poor sandy soil
Great attraction for solitary bees, bumblebees and hoverflies
Ideal for flower meadows, green roofs, dunes and rock gardens
How do I sow sheep's bit?
Sow sheep's bit preferably between March and July. Choose a sunny spot with dry, poor soil. The flower seeds can be sown directly into open ground. Press lightly and do not cover completely, as sheep's bit needs light to germinate. Keep the soil lightly moist during the germination phase. Average germination time is 2 to 4 weeks. Allow approximately 1 gram per 1–2 m².
How do I maintain sheep's bit?
Sheep's bit needs hardly any care. Because the plant thrives on poor soil, fertilising is unnecessary – in fact, it works counterproductively. In flower meadows or natural plantings, you can mow once a year, preferably in September when the seed has been formed. Let the cuttings lie briefly so the seeds can fall out and then remove them. This gives the species the chance to reproduce naturally.
