Scabiosa

Scabiosa caucasica

flower

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A long-flowering perennial prized for its delicate, pincushion-like blooms in lavender-blue, pale blue, or white, held on tall, slender stems above fine gray-green foliage. Scabiosa is excellent for cutting, attracts butterflies and bees, and blooms prolifically from early summer through fall if deadheaded regularly. It thrives in well-drained soils and is relatively low-maintenance once established.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Scabiosa is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Root Rotchevron_right

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Powdery Mildewchevron_right

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Overwateringchevron_right

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Wiltingchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Full sun (6–8 hours daily); essential for prolific flowering and compact growth

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Water

Moderate water during growth; drought-tolerant once established; avoid overwatering; water at base to prevent leaf issues

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Soil

Well-draining soil; tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soil; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5); add gravel or sand to heavy soil

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Fertiliser

Light monthly feeding during growing season; avoid excessive nitrogen; incorporate compost at planting

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Temperature

Hardy perennial; prefers cool to moderate temperatures; dislikes excessive heat and humidity

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Humidity

Low to moderate humidity; excellent air circulation important; dislikes wet conditions

Toxicity

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Non-toxic to all household members

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my Scabiosa flowering all season?

Deadhead regularly — it blooms prolifically from early summer through fall specifically when spent flowers are removed, encouraging continuous production of its pincushion-like blooms.

Why are Scabiosa flowers called pincushion flowers?

Its delicate lavender-blue, pale blue, or white blooms have a domed center studded with protruding stamens, giving them a texture that resembles a pincushion.