Pincushion Flower, Star of Bethlehem
scabiosa stellata
Also known as: ["Mist Flower","Pin Cushion Plant"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant known for its unique, star-shaped seed heads that resemble pincushions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Scabiosa |
| Botanical Name: | Scabiosa stellata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on deadheading and shaping rather than heavy cuts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; monitor humidity levels.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove yellowing or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased parts; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh potting mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if soil freezes; increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or scorch; soil dries out faster; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScabiosa stellata is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicScabiosa stellata is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicScabiosa stellata is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Scabiosa stellata?
A: Propagate by seed sowing in spring or fall, or by division in early spring.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Scabiosa stellata?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Q: Does Scabiosa stellata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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