They are button-like in shape and have petals that flutter in the breeze.
Pincushion flower is non-toxic to animals and humans, and historically, it has been used in traditional medicine.
Scabiosa Care
Here are the basic requirements for successfully growing scabiosa.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
These shorter-lived perennials typically return annually for two to three years.
Light
Plant your scabiosa in a spot with six to eight hours of sunlight each day.
They will not do well when planted in a shady spot.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Soil
Scabiosa plants like soil that is moist but well-draining.
If your landscape has heavy or boggy soil, you’re better off growing your scabiosa in raised beds.
After that, the plants can tolerate brief periods of drought.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Fertilizer
Pincushion flowers are light feeders and can do well without being treated with fertilizer.
Types of Scabiosa
Several different varietals of scabiosa plants are available with different colors and appearances.
Division is a great way to keep growth under control, tame unruly plants, and help with overcrowding.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
If direct sowing outdoors, sow seeds in autumn or spring after the threat of frost.
Sow seeds indoors between four and six weeks before the last spring frost in your area.
If they begin to flop, they may need staking in the container.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
The container needs to be large, around 12 inches in diameter, and with numerous drainage holes.
Fill the pot with a regular but rich potting mix.
Water and feed the plant regularly, but watch out for soggy soil.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Plant your flowers in well-draining soil to reduce these problems.
What Do Scabiosa Flowers Look and Smell Like?
How to Encourage More Blooms
Scabiosa needs a lot of sun.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
You will notice a reduction in blooms and buds if the plant isn’t getting enough light.
Deadheading Scabiosa Flowers
Deadheading is laborious on plants with so many small flowers on individual stems.
Common Issues With Scabiosa
Scabiosa plants are exceedingly easy to care for.
For the greatest success, plant scabiosa in a location with full sun and well-draining soil.
However, as with all plants, look out for signs of stress.
Not Blooming
Scabiosa that do not bloom usually need more sun and less fertilizer.
If this happens, a temperature change or other issues may have affected the plants.
Some scabiosa are more vigorous than others and die out sooner.
Scabiosa is often grown as a perennial in warm areas with mild winters.
Otherwise, it grows as an annual in cooler climates.
Scabiosa pincushion flowers are easy to grow if they have enough sun and well-drained soil.
Yes, scabiosa likes to be deadheaded or sheared to prolong its flowering in the garden.
Scabiosa is not an officially invasive plant.
However, this plant self-seeds and can grow quickly, edging out native plants that require the same nutrients.
Scabiosa is also a difficult plant to remove because of its taproots.
2018;5(4):110.
Plants for a Future.
