Pincushion Flower Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue'

Water

Pincushion flower requires regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. In general, water the plant with approximately 1 inch of water per week, adjusting as necessary during hot, dry periods or rainy conditions. Ensure that the plant receives deep, thorough watering rather than just a light sprinkle, encouraging strong root growth. Over-watering or allowing the plant to sit in waterlogged soil can lead to root rot, so adequate drainage is important. In very hot weather, you might need to water the pincushion flower twice a week to maintain proper soil moisture.

Light

The pincushion flower thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily to promote robust growth and prolific blooming. Though it can tolerate some shade, too little light may result in fewer flowers and a leggier plant. An ideal location would provide morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in regions with extremely hot summers, to protect the plant from scorching.

Temperature

Pincushion flower performs well in a temperature range between 60°F and 85°F, which are ideal conditions for this plant. While it can tolerate temperatures down to about 40°F, it should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures which can damage or kill the plant. During the hot summer months, the pincushion flower can endure higher temperatures but may require additional watering to combat the heat.

Pruning

Prune the pincushion flower to remove spent blooms and encourage a second flush of flowers. Deadheading regularly will also help to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent self-seeding, if desired. The best time for more extensive pruning is in the late winter or early spring, when cutting back the plant can help to promote bushier growth and more stems for flowering. It's often not necessary to prune more than once a year unless the plant looks untidy or is overgrown.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Pincushion Flower thrives in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. A mix of loamy garden soil, compost, and grit or perlite to ensure good drainage constitutes the best soil mix for this perennial.

Repotting

Pincushion Flowers are typically not repotted often as they are perennials; they should be divided or repotted every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and rejuvenate plant vigor.

Humidity & Misting

Pincushion Flowers are adaptable and do not require high humidity; they prefer the average humidity found in outdoor garden settings.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue', commonly known as the Pincushion Flower, begins with seed germination, usually occurring in spring when temperatures are mild and consistent moisture is present. The seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of foliage, followed by the development of the deep root system. As the plants mature, they send up flowering stems from late spring to early summer, showcasing their characteristic lavender-blue, pincushion-like flowers which are highly attractive to pollinators. After pollination, flowers develop into seed heads, which can self-sow under suitable conditions or be collected for propagation. Over the course of the growing season, Pincushion Flowers may continue to bloom if spent flowers are deadheaded regularly. The plant is a short-lived perennial, often treated as an annual or biennial, and it may need to be replanted or allowed to self-seed to maintain its presence in the garden.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the pincushion flower, Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue', is by seed. Propagation should ideally occur in spring or early summer, aligning with the plant's natural growth cycle for optimal results. To propagate by seed, one should sow the seeds thinly onto a tray or pot filled with a well-draining seed starting mix. This mix should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds should be placed in a bright area without direct sunlight until germination occurs, which usually takes about two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have grown enough to handle, typically when they have a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or their final location in the garden, spacing them roughly 12 inches (30 cm) apart to allow sufficient room for growth.