The Story
Plant Bio
Scarlet Scabiosa produces vibrant red flowers and is known for its long-lasting blooms.
This cultivar is particularly noted for its striking scarlet blooms, which are unusual for the species.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial or annual
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity for root development.
- Water regularly but avoid waterlogging during growth.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer for vibrant blooms.
- Prune spent flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain shape.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for rejuvenation.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for the best flowering display and drought tolerance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
- Provide well-draining soil to prevent root rot
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers which promote foliage over flowers
- Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower questions
What zones can Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower grow in?
Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower deer resistant?
Yes — Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower bloom?
Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower need full sun?
Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Scarlet Scabiosa Pincushion Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Scabiosa to compare
Butterfly Blue Scabious Butterfly Blue Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue'
Pink Mist Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist'
Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa scabiosa 'Pincushion Flower'
Glossy Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa lucida
Flutter Deep Blue Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa columbaria 'Flutter Deep Blue'
Fama Blue Pincushion Flower
Scabiosa caucasica 'Fama Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Scarlet Scabiosa 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.