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Scabiosa ‘Butterfly Blue' (Pincushion flower)

Scabiosa ‘Butterfly Blue' Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Scabiosa ‘Butterfly Blue' skab-ee-OH-sah Common Name: Pincushion flower Synonyms: S. columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' Genus: Scabiosa
This Scabiosa cultivar is a compact perennial with gray-green leaves and a long bloom period featuring pretty lavender-blue flowers that look like pincushions surrounded by frilly petals. It's nice when used as edging or in large groups in borders or rock gardens.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Dwarf habit; long blooming period; attracts butterflies; easy to grow in proper conditions.
 Care: Prefers medium, well-drained soil in full sun, but tolerates part shade, particularly in the deep South. Intolerant of wet soils, especially in winter. Deadhead to encourage additional bloom. Divide and replant in fresh soil every 3 years.
 Propagation: Sow seed in containers in a cold frame in spring or as soon as ripe. Divide plants or take cuttings in spring.
 Problems: Nothing serious.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Dry to Medium
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Fall; Spring; Summer
Flower Color Blue Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower
Style Cottage Garden, Rock Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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