Scabious

 Scabious, also known as pincushion flowers, are easy-to-grow. They are button-like in shape and have petals that flutter in the breeze. Under ideal growing conditions, blooms can last from spring to the first frost, although they might slow down in the high heat of summer.

As pretty as the flowers of Scabious stellata are, its the seed heads which are the true showstopper! The spherical seed heads are a silvery colour similar to the seed heads of Honesty (Lunaria). Equally useful as a cut fresh flower or seed head, Ping Pong (our favourite variety) gives several handfuls of stems from a single plant alone. Sow Scabious stellata indoors in early spring or autumn.

Sow seed thinly, lightly cover with compost or vermiculite and keep moist. These seeds may benefits from gentle heat to encourage germination, often a windowsill will be sufficient. Initially, water the seeds from below and keep the soil damp but not wet and do not exclude light. Place in a propagator or seal the seed tray inside a polythene bag until after germination.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow them on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors. When Scabious plants are well grown and all risk of frost has passed, acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days and plant out. 



TOP TIP

If using the seed heads in floral arrangements, a light spritz of hairspray will make them more robust.

Scabious will self-seed in borders from one year to the next.