Pincushion Flower Plant Care
Scabiosa columbaria L.
Scabiosa columbaria, called the small scabious or dwarf pincushion flower, is a widespread species of flowering plant in the genus Scabiosa, native to Europe, Africa, and western Asia, from Sweden to Angola. In the garden it is a short-lived deciduous perennial.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–75°F
40–60%
What Is the Pincushion Flower?
Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa columbaria) belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family within the Scabiosa genus. Pincushion Flower is native to Europe, Africa, and western Asia, from Sweden to Angola. Pincushion Flower is also known as Dove scabious, Columbine scabious, Small scabious.
Pincushion Flower displays a clump-forming perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1 inches. Pincushion Flower produces pincushion-like flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Pincushion Flower?
Scabiosa columbaria requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Pincushion Flower Need?
Pincushion Flower thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Pincushion Flower in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Pincushion Flower Prefer?
Scabiosa columbaria grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Pincushion Flower prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
50–75°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Pincushion Flower?
Well-draining, fertile loamy soil with added compost. Good drainage is essential for Pincushion Flower to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Pincushion Flower?
Divide and replant every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Pincushion Flower?
Pincushion Flower can be propagated through seeds, division of clumps.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Pincushion Flower Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Pincushion Flower?
Pincushion Flower is susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Pincushion Flower Need?
Pincushion Flower grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to Europe, Africa, and western Asia, from Sweden to Angola, Pincushion Flower is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Pincushion Flower as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Pincushion Flower is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Scabiosa genus — compare its care with other Scabiosa species on PlantoScan.
Pincushion Flower tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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