Species pincushion flower
white flowers with cream center and green stems

pincushion flower

Scabiosa caucasica var. alba

The pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica var. alba) is an impressive blooming perennial with an erect habit and a long flowering period. It grows to a height of about 40-60 cm, producing white flowers with a wide, prominent centre. Its soft and fluffy flowers are perfect for cutting and adding to bouquets and arrangements, though their distinct shape has also made them popular as dry flower decorations. This species is drought-tolerant, and flourishes in rocky, sunny areas such as slopes and rock gardens. Easy to care for and attractive to pollinators, it is a great addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica var. alba) should be watered at least once a week with 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water. In the summer months, water more frequently if the soil begins to feel dry. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot, mildew, and other issues. In the winter months, reduce the amount of water given as the plant does not need as much water during the dormant period. If the plant begins to look wilted in the winter, increase the amount of water given.

sunlight

The pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica var. alba) needs about 6 hours of full sunlight each day. The best time to provide sunlight to this plant is between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sunlight is most intense and not too hot. When temperatures are too hot, the plant may suffer from sunburn or wilting. The pincushion flower should not be subjected to long periods of direct, intense sunlight, as this will cause the leaves to burn. Once the temperatures cool off in the late afternoon (around 5-7 pm), the pincushion flower can tolerate a few additional hours of dappled sunlight.

pruning

Pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica var. alba) should be pruned during the late winter or early spring. This should be done before the plant starts to produce new growth in the spring. Cut back dead stems and any shoots that show signs of damage or disease. Prune hard to remove about 1-third of the old stems of the plant and remove any stems that have grown beyond their natural shape. This will encourage strong new growth and a more bushy appearance.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The pincushion flower typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

The pincushion flower typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map