Field scabious is a large, erect forb with a large branched taproot and a single main stem, branching into multiple flower stalks.

Perennial

Field scabious grows in a wide range of conditions on sites with nutrient-rich finely textured soils. Infestations of field scabious can reduce the yield and quality of forage in pastures. Native vegetation can be displaced by heavy infestations.

Field scabious reproduces by seed and vegetative through stolons. Seed production is moderate with up to 2000 seeds produced per plant. Most seeds fall close to the parent plant, but some may be spread by animals. Field scabious seeds may remain viable in the soil for many years. This species is generally slow-spreading but is very invasive and can colonize most suitable habitats.

Infestations of Field scabious are found in the City of Quesnel, south of Quesnel, Gaspard Creek, and Alexis Creek. Currently, the only known severe infestation is along the Cottonwood River.