pincushion flower

This plant species should be watered regularly, approximately once or twice a week, depending on the environment and the season. It should not be over-watered, as the plant does not do well in overly-wet soil conditions. Aim to keep the soil lightly moist, rather than soaked. During the summer months, the plant may need more frequent watering, perhaps every few days, and during the winter, once a week may be enough. When watering, be sure to check the soil before doing so – the top inch should be dry before adding more water.

The pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica 'Fama') thrives in full sun or partial shade. It needs 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day during the growing season. If planted in an area that gets too much direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day (10 am - 2 pm), the plant should be shaded with a light cloth for a few hours to prevent sunburn. If the plant does not get enough sunlight, its growth may be stunted and the quality of its blooms will suffer.

The pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica 'Fama') should generally be pruned lightly and as needed in late spring after flowering. The tips of the plant should be snipped off to encourage a bushier growth form and to remove any spent blooming stalks. Deadheading (removal of spent blooms) should be done regularly, and if the flowers become sparse, shearing off a third of the foliage will help encourage new growth. For the winter, any dead or damaged stems should be removed, and if needed, a light pruning to promote bushiness can be done in late winter.