Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa caucasica
 
Scabiosa caucasica are an excellent cutting garden flower and are used extensively in modern garden design today. This perennial form of Scabiosa are very easy to grow and are extremely hardy, to below -18°C (0°F).
 
 The 'Perfection' series of cultivars, also known as the Perfecta series, features plants with large frilly outer petals. The flowers bloom singly on strong, stiff stems from late May through to late summer.
 
The grayish-green foliage features entire, lance-shaped, basal leaves and pinnately-lobed stem leaves. They are well stemmed with large flat flower heads and will flower the first year if started a good 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting outside. The center cushions of the flowers have protruding stamens resembling pins in a pincushion, hence the common name. They never fail to bloom throughout the whole summer, and last well into autumn, they are also very attractive to bees and butterflies.
 
Details:
Plant Life Cycle: Perennial
Site: Full Sun/ Part shade
Days to germinate: 10-12 days
Days to maturity:105-120 days
Height: 26-32"
Sow: 1/4 deep
Plant spacing:12-18"
Approx seeds per packet:50
 
How to Grow:
Transplant (recommended): Sow 6-8 weeks before last frost. Barely cover seeds as light is required for germination. Transplant to cell packs when the first true leaves appear. In the greenhouse, grow transplants at 60-65°F (16-21°C). Lower temperatures can cause premature flowers and poor garden performance. Harden off and transplant outside after the last frost. 
 
Direct seeding is not recommended.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Rich, well-drained soil.
HARDINESS ZONES:Zones 3-7. Plants will live about 3 years.
 
Harvest: Fresh: When flowers are at bud stage or half open.
 
Vase life: 7 days