Botanical name
Scabiosa columbaria
Common name
Pincushion Flower
Pincushion Flower description
Scabiosa columbaria is a lovely perennial that grows to around 60cm in height and 1m in spread, producing a profusion of flowers in late Autumn, Winter and Spring. These can be in a range of colours from white through to pink, mauve, purple and lavender blue.
The honey-scented blooms display multiple florets with protruding filaments giving the flower its pincushion effect. Pollinators find this plant very attractive. The long hairy stems make it ideal as a cut flower too.
Climate
Temperate climates
Cultivation & care
Prefers well drained soil in a full sun position. Use a premium potting mix if growing in containers. Water well and fertilise in Spring to encourage a long flowering period.
Propagate from seed in Spring or softwood cuttings in Spring to Summer.
Plant use
Pots, cottage gardens, borders, cut flowers
Pruning
Remove spent flowers and give a light tidy up once flowering finishes.
Pests & diseases
No specific pests or diseases.
