There are 72 species of Scabiosa, also called PINCUSHION FLOWER or SCABIOUS and a member of the Caprifoliaceae family. Two are cultivated perennials – Scabiosa caucasica and columbaria. Both can be propagated via cutting, seed, or division, and grow to two feet high. They flower in summer, sometimes into fall, prefer moderate to regular watering, and thrive in Zones 4-10. The images shown here with wildlife perched on Scabiosa blossoms illustrates the visual delight provided by the attributes of this plant and the insects it attracts.

Scabiosa columbaria is a violet flowering perennial (or biennial) that grows to 2' high by 3' wide. It is native to Afria, Asia, and Europe. The leaves are green, lobed form, whorl or spiral, and have an obovate footprint with a hairy margin and a blunt tip. It can be cultivated via division, cutting, or seed and will grow in Zones 6-10. Grow it in loam or well-drained soil, in sun, in a container if you want, and give it moderate or regular watering.

Scabiosa attracts Vanessa annabella, West Coast Lady