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Caprifoliaceae
Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa caucasica
Yearning, lost love, and wistful remembrance.
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Genus
- Scabiosa
- Native to
- Caucasus Mountains, Turkey, Iran
- Bloom season
- Summer, Early Fall
- Type
- herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 30–60 cm
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil
- well-drained, alkaline
- Water
- low to moderate
- Hardiness
- 3–7
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- The name 'pincushion' comes from the protruding stamens that resemble pins stuck in a cushion.
- Scabiosa derives from the Latin 'scabies' (itch) — the plant was historically used to treat skin rashes.
- Butterflies are especially drawn to the flat flower heads, making it a staple in pollinator gardens.
- In Victorian flower language, giving scabiosa meant 'I have lost all' — a token of unrequited love.
- The cultivar 'Fama Deep Blue' won the prestigious Fleuroselect Gold Medal for outstanding garden performance.
Color meanings
Lavender
longing and nostalgia
White
gentle mourning
Blue
faith and devotion