Pincushion Flower Care

Scabiosa atropurpurea (syn. Sixalix atropurpurea), the mourningbride, mournful widow, pincushion flower, or sweet scabious, is an ornamental plant of the genus Scabiosa in the family Caprifoliaceae. It is native to southern Europe.

Scabiosa atropurpurea has cauline leaves that are pinnately dissected, plants have red to purple flowers. It is native to southern Europe. It propagates by seeds which are dispersed by animals. It prefers cooler climates, high temperatures and humidity negatively impact its growth. Scabiosa atropurpurea grows best in rich, alkaline soils high in organic matter with good drainage. It makes a good cut flower. Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Beaujolais Bonnets' is a cultivar grown for its long blooming period and burgundy flowers.[

This plant is useful.

How to get rid of: The process can be confusing, since spent flower heads often resemble active blooms. However, with a careful eye and a sharp pair of scissors, it is very easy to correctly deadhead a pincushion flower. 1 Check blooms periodically to determine if they are spent -- old pincushion flower blooms appear similar to active blooms, but are lighter in color and dry to the touch (seeds may fall out when the dried blooms are disturbed).

2 Cut the flower stems of spent blooms against the nearest leaves or active flower bud. Remove flowers beginning with the terminal (topmost) bloom and work down toward the base of the plant. Cut the flower stalk just before the point where the leaves emerge if there is only one flower on the stalk.

3 Place dried blooms aside as you remove them if you wish to save seeds for the following season. Cut the spent blooms from the cut stems and discard the stems. Rub the dried flowers between your palms above an open paper sack to release the seeds.