Pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica 'Fama')
Admire the showy, lilac-blue blooms of Scabiosa caucasica 'Fama', a low-maintenance Pincushion flower perfect for cottage gardens.
Scroll down to discover growing tips, care requirements, companion plants, and more
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’, commonly known as Pincushion flower, is highly valued for its distinctive, pincushion-like blooms and strong performance in zones 3 through 7. This clump-forming perennial brings reliable color to the late spring and early summer garden with its large, lilac-blue flowers held high above attractive gray-green foliage. Growers appreciate the low maintenance required once established.
This specific cultivar, Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’, distinguishes itself with exceptionally large flowers, sometimes measuring 3 to 4 inches wide. The flowers are borne singly on stiff stems, making them excellent vertical accents. While tolerant of some reduced moisture once established, proper soil structure remains crucial for long-term success.
The unique aesthetic of the Pincushion flower, with its ruffled outer petals surrounding a dense center cushion, ensures it catches the eye. Whether used in a mixed border or harvested for bouquets, Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ provides excellent texture and lasting beauty through the early season.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1.5-2 ft
- Spread: 1-1.5 ft
- Bloom Time: May to July
- Bloom Description: Blue
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
The key to thriving Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ is excellent soil drainage. Plant this Pincushion flower in spring or fall in locations receiving full sun. The ideal soil mixture is light, well-drained, and neutral in pH. Plants tend to rot quickly if soil remains perpetually wet, especially in winter, so avoid low spots where water collects.
Water needs are medium; provide regular moisture, especially during establishment or extended dry spells. Avoid overhead watering if possible to keep foliage dry. Fertilizing is rarely necessary if the soil quality is adequate, as over-fertilization can lead to weak stems rather than abundant blooms.
Deadheading spent flowers is highly recommended. Removing faded blooms by cutting the stem back encourages the plant to produce additional flowers throughout its primary bloom window in May through July. In colder zones, a light, dry winter mulch—such as straw or evergreen boughs—will protect the crown from harsh winter wetness.
Landscape Uses
The structural elegance of Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ makes it a foundational element in many romantic garden designs. Its height works perfectly toward the middle or back of perennial borders, where its upright stems prevent it from being overwhelmed by shorter neighbors. It excels in cottage gardens, where its cool blue tones blend beautifully with pastels and silvery foliage.
Because the Pincushion flower is intolerant of intense humidity and heat, place it where it receives good air circulation. This also makes it an outstanding choice for cutting gardens, as the strong stems deliver flowers clean and upright to the vase. Look for companions that also prefer good drainage, such as ornamental grasses or many varieties of Salvia.
This versatile plant serves well as an edging component for larger, looser borders or massed in drifts to create a cohesive wash of blue color. Ensure the location avoids prolonged exposure to the afternoon sun if you are situated at the warmer end of its hardiness range (zone 7).
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Good Cut
Noteworthy Characteristics
Scabiosa caucasica, commonly called pincushion flower, is, as suggested by the specific epithet, native to the Caucusus Mountains. It is a clump-forming perennial that typically grows 18-24” tall and blooms from late May to mid-summer. Flowers (2-3” diameter) are lavender to blue (occasionally white), with an outer ring of frilly petals and a center cushion with protruding stamens resembling pins in a pincushion. ‘Fama’ features large, 3 to 4 in. Wide, lilac blue flowers held above the lance-shaped, gray green foliage, growing up to 2 ft tall.
Tolerances
- Deer
- Drought
Potential Problems
This resilient Pincushion flower generally faces no serious insect or disease issues, provided cultural requirements are met. The primary threat to the survival of Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ is poor soil drainage, which leads to crown or root rot. This problem is exacerbated in winter; always ensure the location drains freely, or incorporate grit into the planting area if heavy clay is present. Avoid high heat and humidity, which can also stress the plant, leading to premature decline or poor flowering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ suitable for?
This robust perennial thrives in USDA Zones 3 through 7, offering reliable performance across a wide range of climates.
How large does Pincushion flower grow?
Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ generally reaches a height between 1.5 and 2 feet tall, with a complementary spread of 1 to 1.5 feet wide.
What sun exposure does Pincushion flower need?
For the best flowering performance from Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’, ensure it receives full sun exposure throughout the growing season.
When does Pincushion flower bloom?
This variety blooms reliably from May through July, showcasing striking blue colors atop strong stems.
Conclusion
Featuring large, showy flowers and demanding low maintenance, Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ is a reliable choice for adding cool blue tones to the mid-summer landscape. Gardeners should prioritize planting this Pincushion flower in a site that guarantees excellent soil drainage to prevent winter rot. Check your local USDA zone compatibility and plan to plant this spring for summer beauty.
Companion Planting
Choosing companions for Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’ requires selecting plants that share its love for full sun and dislike wet feet. Consider pairing it with drought-tolerant plants like Lavender (Lavandula) or Coneflower (Echinacea). These neighbors will match the plant’s medium water needs and thrive in the same well-drained conditions required by the Pincushion flower.
For a textural contrast in the cottage garden, plant shorter varieties of ornamental grasses nearby. The fine texture of the grass foliage provides a soft backdrop that makes the bold, geometric flowers of the Scabiosa caucasica ‘Fama’—its lilac-blue spikes—truly pop visually, enhancing the overall design.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Early spring is the time to clean up any remaining winter mulch and check the plant crowns for frost damage. As the season warms, begin deadheading any early flowers that fade to promote a flush of repeat blooms throughout the early summer. Watering should be consistent but moderate, especially before the plant sets flowers.
During high summer heat, monitor the plant closely; if stress appears due to humidity, ensure good air circulation between plants. Fall care is simple; cut back the spent flower stalks once blooming ceases late in the season. Avoid heavy fertilization in late summer, which could force tender new growth susceptible to early frosts.
