What is a Scabiosa Flower

Scabiosa (commonly known as pincushion flower or scabious) encompasses species in the genus Scabiosa (family Caprifoliaceae), herbaceous annuals, biennials, or perennials native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, distinguished by their dome-shaped flower heads with a central “pincushion” of protruding stamens surrounded by frilly outer florets. These plants, typically 20–90 cm tall, feature basal rosettes of pinnately lobed leaves and wiry stems bearing solitary blooms in lavender, blue, pink, white, yellow, or burgundy, attracting pollinators and serving as long-blooming accents in cottage gardens and floristry.​

Botanical Characteristics

Scabiosa forms clumps with basal rosettes of coarsely lobed or pinnate leaves transitioning to narrower, feathery stem leaves, often gray-green and hairy. Flower heads (2–10 cm across) are composite-like with an outer ring of enlarged, five-lobed ray florets and a domed center of tubular disc florets topped by extended stamens resembling pins; subtended by bract wreaths, they yield single-seeded achenes with persistent calyces.​

• Floral traits: Nectar-rich for bees/butterflies; bloom late spring to autumn; faintly honey-scented in some.​
• Growth habit: Clump-forming, drought-tolerant once established; fine texture.​

Taxonomy and Classification

The genus Scabiosa (~100 species) includes key horticultural types: annual S. atropurpurea (mourning bride, tall spikes), perennial S. caucasica (Caucasian, large lavender blooms), S. columbaria (dwarf blue), and S. rumelica (butterfly blue); related genera like Knautia share pincushion form. Cultivars like ‘Pink Mist’ or ‘Fama White’ enhance color range.​

Cultivation Practices

Scabiosa thrives in full sun, well-drained, neutral-alkaline soil (pH 6.5–7.5), zones 3–9 (perennials); sow seeds directly or start indoors; deadhead for rebloom. Low maintenance; deer/rabbit resistant.​

• Care: Moderate water; divide perennials every 3 years.​
• Challenges: Slugs, powdery mildew—space for air flow.​

Floristry and Economic Uses

Cut flowers (vase life 7–10 days) for bouquets; strong stems, unique texture.​

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Named for scabies-healing folklore; symbolizes affection, healing.