Pincushion Flower
scabiosa caucasica
Also known as: ["Butterfly Flower","Pincushion Flower"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant known for its distinctive pincushion-like flowers that attract butterflies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Scabiosa |
| Botanical Name: | Scabiosa caucasica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds, borders, or containers in a sunny spot
- 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 root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during flowering season; light shaping pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or rejuvenate old plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid drafty windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust for weather and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds in poorly drained areas; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and can handle light frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use a mix of peat and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead by cutting just above a leaf node; shape by trimming back leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; prune lightly to maintain shape and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Check for dead or diseased stems; deadhead spent flowers; prune to shape; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; yellowing or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root damage if soil remains waterlogged in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; ensure good drainage; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch, and flowering can be reduced in prolonged high heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScabiosa caucasica is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of poisoning in felines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicScabiosa caucasica is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicScabiosa caucasica is not known to have toxic effects on humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in gardens and floral arrangements without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Scabiosa caucasica?
A: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Q: Does Scabiosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Scabiosa is highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Scabiosa caucasica toxic to pets?
A: No, Scabiosa caucasica is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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