perennial

Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Florist's Pink'

The Story

Plant Bio

Florist's Pink is known for its attractive, pink flowers and long blooming period.

This cultivar is favored for its abundant flowers which make it ideal for cut flower arrangements.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides vibrant pink blooms throughout summer, attracting pollinators and adding color to borders.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering and maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity.
SpeciesScabiosa atropurpureaPincushion Flower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Short-lived perennial or annual

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist but not waterlogged during propagation.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they have at least two sets of true leaves, typically after 6 weeks.
  4. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow airflow and prevent disease.
  5. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first growing season.
  6. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6 weeks for optimal growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune dead or faded flowers to encourage more blooms
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer
  • Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  • Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
  • Do not plant in dense, poorly drained soil
  • Refrain from excessive fertilizing which can cause legginess
  • Never forget to remove diseased or damaged foliage
  • Avoid shady locations; prefers full sun

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Harvest
Plant
Propagate

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful perennial borderWildflower meadow accentDrought-tolerant garden bed

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower questions

What zones can Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower grow in?

Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower deer resistant?

Yes — Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower bloom?

Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower need full sun?

Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Florist's Pink Pincushion Flower with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.