Pincushion Flower

There are not many perennials that work as hard as this one in the Texas garden. Pincushion flower, Scabiosa, are almost non-stop bloomers all year long, taking a break only during the coldest weather.

Growing

Pincushion flowers grow best in full sun. The soil should be of average to rich fertility, alkaline, well drained and rich in organic matter. Keep the soil moderately moist, but do not overwater. The plants are drought tolerant once established.

While it’s not required, regular deadheading will result in ever more flowers.

Tips

Pincushion flowers are perfect for the front of mixed perennial beds, rock gardens and retaining walls. They also do well in containers. Their continuous blooms make them a great cut-flower resource.

Recommended

S. columbaria is a compact, mounding perennial with soft gray-green leaves that blooms almost year-round in mild climates. ‘Butterfly Blue,’ ‘Giant Blue’ and ‘Pink Mist’ are all excellent cultivars.

Features: unique purple, blue, maroon, pink, white, red or bronze flowers; form; habit

Height: 12–24"

Spread: 12–36"

Hardiness: zones 3-8

Note: The rounded, densely petaled blooms serve as a perfect landing pad for butterflies and bees.