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Scabiosa (skay-bee-oh-suh) scabious, morning bride, pincushion flower; Dipsacaceae Family. Mostly hardy perennials, Scabiosa comes in shades of white, pink, yellow, blue, and very dark reds and purples. Last well when cut, is easily grown in ordinary garden soil and full sun.

Scabiosa columbaria (kol-lum-bay-ree-uh) perennials from the Old World, 1 to 2 feet tall, with blue florets in globe-shaped clusters, 1 ½ inch across, blooming all summer. Good branching habit of growth.

Scabiosa's, Pincushion Flower nickname comes from its outer ring of frilly, flat, petals and a paler domed center cushion with protruding stamens, similar to pins in a pincushion.

Plant is easy to grow in average, medium, well-drained soil; however it is intolerant of wet soils, especially in winter. A light mulch and regular water during summer will improve performance. Performs best in full sun; it does tolerate part shade, particularly in hot summer zones.

Deadheading spent flowers to encourage additional bloom will attract more butterflies and hummingbirds. Excellent in rock gardens, borders and container gardens, and a long-lasting cut flower. Disease resistant.

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (30)ct Flat

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (4) 1-gallons

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Flutter Rose Pink' PP27809 (10)ct Quarts

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' PP8957 (30)ct Flat

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (30)ct Flat

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Pincushion Flower This selection produces a profusion of lavender-blue, pincushion-like flowers over a very long period beginning in late spring. They sit atop wiry stems which hover...

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (4) 1-gallons

Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' (4) 1-gallons a/k/a Pincushion FlowerZones 3 to 9, Sun Height of 12 inches and a spread of 12 to 18, compact, clump-forming.Perennial Plant of the Year in 2000. Long-blooming 2-inch lavender-blue flowers atop stiff stems...

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Flutter Rose Pink' PP27809 (10)ct Quarts

Scabiosa 'Flutter Rose Pink' PP27809 (10)ct Quarts a/k/a Pincushion Flower Dwarf Pincushion Flower with flowers that are larger and deeper pink than ‘Pink Mist’. Blooms non-stop from spring through late summer.Large pink petals form a...

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' PP8957 (30)ct Flat

Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' PP8957 (30)ct Flat Common name: Pincushion Flower Pincushion-like, pink flowers with a hint of lavender are borne atop wiry stems over a long period beginning in early summer. They hover over the short mound of ferny...

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What are the benefits of planting Scabiosa?

Here are some of the benefits of planting Scabiosa, also known as Pincushion flower:

Beautiful and unique flowers: Scabiosa boasts button-like flowers in various colors, including blues, purples, pinks, and whites, adding a touch of charm and elegance to your garden.

Long bloom time: These low-maintenance plants bloom throughout summer and into early fall, providing continuous visual interest in your garden.

Attracts pollinators: Scabiosa flowers are rich in nectar, attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators to your garden, which can help improve the health of your other plants.

Drought tolerant: Once established, Scabiosa plants are quite drought tolerant, making them a good choice for areas with limited rainfall or for gardeners who do not have a lot of time to water their plants.

Deer and rabbit resistant: Scabiosa is unpalatable to deer and rabbits, making it a good choice for gardens that are prone to these pests.

Easy to care for: Scabiosa is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil. They do not require a lot of fertilizer or special care.

Can be grown as cut flowers: Scabiosa flowers last well in vases, making them a great choice for homegrown bouquets.

Overall, Scabiosa is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that offers a multitude of benefits for your garden.

What are the characteristics of Scabiosa?

Scabiosa, commonly known as Pincushion flower, is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family. Here are some of its key characteristics:

Growth habit:

Can be annual, biennial, or perennial depending on the species.
Forms basal rosettes of leaves with leafy stems.
Varies in height from 4 to 12 inches depending on the species.

Leaves:

Mostly hairy and lobed, though some species have smooth or simple leaves.
Grayish-green in color.
Basal leaves are typically larger than stem leaves.

Flowers:

Borne on inflorescences in the form of heads.
Each head contains many small, five-lobed florets, often bisexual.
Colors range from white to purple, with lavender-blue being most common.
Feature an outer ring of frilly petals and a center cushion with protruding stamens resembling pins in a pincushion, hence the common name.
Bloom throughout summer and into early fall, depending on the species.

Fruits:

Each flower develops into a single-seeded fruit.
The persistent calyx remains as a crown on the fruit after it is shed.

Overall, Scabiosa is a visually interesting and low-maintenance plant that can add beauty and attract pollinators to your garden.

How do I plant Scabiosa?

There are two main ways to plant Scabiosa: directly sowing seeds outdoors or from containers:

Planting Scabiosa from Containers:

Preparation:

Timing: Choose the right time for planting. Ideally, wait until the danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is consistently warm, which is typically in late spring or early summer in most regions.
Location: Select a suitable location in your garden. Scabiosa thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. Avoid areas with constantly wet soil, as they are susceptible to root rot.
Amending the soil (optional): If your soil is not well-draining, consider amending it with compost, aged manure, or sand to improve drainage.

Planting:

Watering the container plant: Thoroughly water the Scabiosa in its container a few hours before transplanting to ensure the soil is moist but not soggy.
Digging the hole: Dig a hole in the chosen location that is slightly larger than the root ball of the Scabiosa plant.
Gently removing the plant: Carefully remove the plant from its container by tipping the pot on its side and gently tapping the bottom. You can also squeeze the sides of the container to loosen the root ball.
Positioning the plant: Place the Scabiosa in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil surface. Do not bury the stem deeply.
Backfilling and firming the soil: Fill the hole with the excavated soil, gently but firmly pressing it down around the root ball to eliminate air pockets.
Watering: Water the newly planted Scabiosa thoroughly to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.

Aftercare:

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting until the plant establishes itself. However, avoid overwatering, as Scabiosa is drought tolerant once established.
Mulching (optional): Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Deadheading: Regularly deadhead (remove spent flowers) to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Simply pinch off the wilted flower heads just below the base.

By following these steps, you can successfully transplant your Scabiosa from a container to your garden and enjoy their beautiful blooms throughout the season.

What are varieties of Scabiosa?

Here are some popular varieties of Scabiosa, also known as Pincushion flowers:

Annual Scabiosa (Scabiosa atropurpurea): This is the most common type of Scabiosa, and it comes in a wide variety of colors, including purples, blues, pinks, and whites. It typically grows to be about 12-18 inches tall and blooms throughout the summer.
Perennial Scabiosa (Scabiosa columbaria): This type of Scabiosa is less common than the annual variety, but it is just as beautiful. It comes in a similar range of colors as the annual Scabiosa, and it typically blooms from late spring to early fall. It can grow up to 2-3 feet tall.
Black Knight Scabiosa (Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Black Knight'): This variety of Scabiosa is known for its deep purple flowers that almost appear black. It grows to be about 18-24 inches tall and blooms from early summer to fall.
Butterfly Blue Scabiosa (Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue'): This variety of Scabiosa has vibrant blue flowers that resemble butterflies. It grows to be about 18-24 inches tall and blooms from late spring to early fall.
Pink Mist Scabiosa (Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist'): This variety of Scabiosa has soft pink flowers that are perfect for adding a touch of romance to your garden. It grows to be about 18-24 inches tall and blooms from late spring to early fall.

These are just a few of the many varieties of Scabiosa available. With so many different colors and sizes to choose from, you can easily find a Scabiosa that will be perfect for your garden.

How Do I Care For a Scabiosa?

Here is a guide on caring for your Scabiosa, also known as Pincushion flower:

Sunlight and Location:

Sun: Scabiosa thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Partial shade: In hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching. Avoid excessively shady locations, as this will hinder blooming.

Watering:

Newly planted: Water thoroughly right after planting and keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks until established.
Established plants: Scabiosa is drought tolerant once established. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Soil:

Well-draining: Scabiosa needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Amending clay soil with compost, sand, or aged manure can improve drainage.
pH: Adapts to a wide range but thrives in slightly alkaline to neutral soil (pH 6.0-8.0).

Fertilizing:

Minimal: Scabiosa does not require heavy fertilizing. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can be beneficial, but avoid overfertilizing, as it can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Deadheading:

Regularly deadhead (remove spent flowers) throughout the blooming season to encourage continuous flowering. Simply pinch off the wilted flower heads just below the base.

Winter Care:

Annuals: These varieties typically do not survive winter and should be replanted each year.
Perennials: In colder climates (USDA zones 3-7), mulch the base of the plant with straw or leaves in late fall to protect the roots from harsh winter temperatures. Remove the mulch in spring as new growth emerges.

Additional Tips:

Dividing: For perennials, you can divide established plants every 3-4 years to create new ones.
Pests and diseases: Scabiosa is pest and disease resistant. However, if you notice any issues, address them promptly using organic methods whenever possible.

By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Scabiosa thrives and brings beauty and color to your garden throughout the season.

Does Scabiosa attract pollinators?

Scabiosa, also known as Pincushion flower, is highly attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Here are some reasons why Scabiosa is a pollinator magnet:

Rich in nectar: Scabiosa flowers produce a plentiful amount of nectar, a sweet liquid that is a valuable food source for many pollinators.
Bright colors: The vibrant colors of Scabiosa flowers, typically in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white, are readily visible to pollinators, attracting them from afar.
Open and accessible flower structure: The open and cup-shaped flowers of Scabiosa allow pollinators easy access to the nectar within.
Blooms throughout summer: Scabiosa boasts a long blooming season, providing a consistent food source for pollinators throughout the summer months.

By attracting pollinators, Scabiosa plants play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Pollinators help to transfer pollen between plants, which is essential for plant reproduction. This, in turn, helps to ensure the health and diversity of plant communities.

If you are looking for a way to attract pollinators to your garden and support the environment, planting Scabiosa is a great option. These beautiful and low-maintenance plants will not only add a touch of color to your garden but also contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Scabiosa?

While considered pest and disease resistant, Scabiosa can be susceptible to a few issues, especially when growing conditions are not ideal. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:

Pests:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing stunted growth, yellowing foliage, and distorted leaves.
Slugs and snails: These slimy creatures feed on leaves and flowers, leaving behind ragged holes and slimy trails.
Spider mites: These tiny mites suck sap from the undersides of leaves, causing stippling (small yellow or white dots) and bronzing of leaves.
Thrips: These minute, sap-sucking insects cause similar damage to spider mites but may also leave silvery markings on leaves and flowers.

Diseases:

Botrytis blight: This fungal disease, also known as gray mold, thrives in cool, humid conditions. It causes grayish-brown spots on leaves and flowers, which can eventually turn brown and mushy.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as white powdery patches on the leaves and stems. It can stunt growth and reduce flower production.
Leaf spot: This fungal or bacterial disease causes small, round spots to appear on the leaves. The spots may be brown, black, or yellow, and may have a sunken appearance.
Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by excessive moisture in the soil. It damages the roots, preventing them from absorbing water and nutrients. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth.

Prevention tips:

Promote good air circulation: Ensure adequate spacing between plants and avoid overhead watering to prevent moisture buildup, which can attract pests and diseases.
Water properly: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Choose resistant varieties: Opt for Scabiosa varieties known for their resistance to specific pests and diseases.
Monitor regularly: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or diseases and address them promptly using organic methods whenever possible. This may involve handpicking pests, spraying them with insecticidal soap or neem oil solution, or removing and destroying infected plant parts.

By following these tips and being observant, you can help keep your Scabiosa healthy and prevent pest and disease problems. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing these issues effectively.

Can I Use Scabiosa in Floral Arrangements?

Yes, you absolutely can use Scabiosa, also known as Pincushion flowers, in floral arrangements! They offer several advantages that make them a versatile and attractive choice:

Unique and eye-catching: Scabiosa boasts charming, button-like flowers in various vibrant colors like blues, purples, pinks, and whites, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance to your arrangements.
Texture and depth: Their unique pincushion shape and distinct texture add visual interest and depth to bouquets, complementing other flowers with different shapes and textures.
Versatile for different styles: Scabiosa can be used in various floral arrangements, from rustic and romantic to modern and minimalist. They can be used as:
Focal flowers: Their prominent and unique blooms can be the center of attention in smaller arrangements.
Filler flowers: Scabiosa's smaller florets and diverse colors add texture and fill empty spaces in larger bouquets.
Accents: Their delicate blooms can add finishing touches and pops of color to various arrangements.
Long-lasting: Scabiosa flowers have a good vase life of 3-7 days, depending on care and variety, making them suitable for various events and displays.
Easy to care for: To ensure their longevity in arrangements, simply follow basic cut flower care tips like using clean water, adding flower food, and keeping them cool.

Here are some additional points to consider:

Stem length: Scabiosa come in various heights, allowing you to choose stems that fit the desired arrangement size and style.
Combinations: Scabiosa pair well with various flowers, including roses, lilies, hydrangeas, and wildflowers, creating diverse and visually appealing arrangements.
Availability: While typically available year-round, their peak season is in summer and early fall.

Overall, Scabiosa is a valuable addition to your floral design toolbox, offering beauty, texture, versatility, and relative ease of care.

Is Scabiosa Invasive?

The invasiveness of Scabiosa depends on the specific species and location. Here is a breakdown:

Most Scabiosa species are not considered invasive:

The California Invasive Plant Council (https://www.cal-ipc.org/plants/risk/scabiosa-atropurpurea-risk/) states that most Scabiosa species are not classified as invasive.

However, some caution is necessary:

Scabiosa atropurpurea (Pincushion flower): While not widely listed as invasive, it has been rated "Watch" by the California Invasive Plant Council due to concerns about its potential to naturalize and form monocultures in certain areas. It is considered a Regional Noxious Weed by the BC Weed Control Act in British Columbia, Canada, where it can be problematic.
Other species: It is crucial to research the specific Scabiosa species you are considering to determine its potential invasiveness in your region. You can consult resources like your local botanical garden, extension office, or native plant societies for guidance.

Here are some general points to consider:

Climate: Scabiosa tends to be more likely to become invasive in warmer climates with longer growing seasons.
Habitat: Disturbed areas with minimal competition pose a higher risk for Scabiosa to establish and potentially spread.

Responsible gardening practices: To minimize the risk of any plant becoming invasive, it is essential to:

Plant them in contained spaces like designated flower beds.
Deadhead spent flowers to prevent uncontrolled seed production.
Dispose of plant material responsibly (e.g., not composting if invasive).

Remember, responsible gardening practices and understanding the specific plant's potential for invasiveness in your area are key to enjoying Scabiosa while minimizing any ecological risk.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Scabiosa?

The best time to propagate Scabiosa depends on the method you choose:

Seed Sowing:

For most regions: The ideal time to sow Scabiosa seeds is in late winter or early spring. This allows the seedlings to benefit from increasing daylight hours and gradually warming soil temperatures as they germinate and establish themselves.

For colder climates: If you live in a region with a short growing season, you can start Scabiosa seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. This gives them a head start and allows you to transplant them outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.

Division (for perennials):

Early spring: This is the preferred time to divide Scabiosa perennials. The plant is actively growing during this period, allowing it to recover and establish new roots more effectively.

Here is a quick summary table:

Propagation Method	Best Time
Seed Sowing (most regions)	Late winter/Early spring
Seed Sowing (cold climates)	6-8 weeks before last frost date (indoors)
Division (perennials)	Early spring

Remember, these are general guidelines, and specific timing may vary slightly depending on your local climate and weather conditions. Always consult with local gardening experts or reliable gardening resources for the most accurate recommendations for your specific location.

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Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (30)ct Flat

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (4) 1-gallons

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Flutter Rose Pink' PP27809 (10)ct Quarts

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' PP8957 (30)ct Flat

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (30)ct Flat

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (4) 1-gallons

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Flutter Rose Pink' PP27809 (10)ct Quarts

Scabiosa

Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' PP8957 (30)ct Flat