Product Description
Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' PP8957 (30)ct Flat
Common name: Pincushion Flower
Pincushion-like, pink flowers with a hint of lavender are borne atop wiry stems over a long period beginning in early summer. They hover over the short mound of ferny basal foliage. This is a reliable, long-blooming selection.
Long-blooming 2-inch pink flowers atop stiff stems over gray-green foliage. The nickname comes from its outer ring of frilly, flat, petals and a paler domed center cushion with protruding stamens, similar to pins in a pincushion. Blooms start in the spring and continue blooming into autumn, blooming almost all year in mild winter climates.
Scabiosa grows best in average soil and full sun. Good drainage is essential for the health of the plants. Deadheading will promote a longer blooming period. In the fall, cut back any flowering stems to help the plants prepare for winter.
Height: 12.0-18.0 Inches
Spread: 15.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Pink shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low to Average Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Summer - Late Summer
Attracts Butterflies
Bee Friendly
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Container, Cut Flower, Mass Planting
Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist', affectionately known as the pincushion flower, is a captivating perennial boasting lilac-pink blooms that grace gardens from spring until fall. This compact plant, with its extended blooming season and alluring flowers, has become a beloved choice for gardeners of all levels. This detailed guide will equip you with the knowledge and insights to successfully cultivate and appreciate this delightful gem in your own garden.
Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' is a member of the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) and belongs to the genus Scabiosa. The genus name has a rather curious origin, stemming from the Latin word "scabies," meaning "the itch." This refers to the somewhat rough texture of the plant's leaves, which were once thought to have the ability to cure scurvy. Interestingly, this cultivar is a color mutation of the well-known Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue', carefully selected at Walberton Nursery in West Sussex, England. Scabiosa species are native to diverse regions across Africa, Europe, and Asia, highlighting their adaptability to various climates and conditions.
Plant Characteristics Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' is admired for its compact and clump-forming growth habit. It typically reaches a height of 12-18 inches with a spread of 10-15 inches. To better visualize its key features, refer to the table below:
- Habit Compact, clump-forming
- Height 12-18 inches
- Width 10-15 inches
- Foliage Finely cut, grayish-green basal leaves
- Flowers Lilac-pink, pincushion-like, 2 inches in diameter
- Bloom Time Mid-spring to mid-fall
The plant's delicate blossoms are a sight to behold. Each flower, about 2 inches in diameter, is borne singly on sturdy stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers have a unique structure, featuring an outer ring of frilly pink petals surrounding a paler domed center cushion adorned with protruding stamens, giving it the characteristic "pincushion" look. While it exhibits evergreen tendencies in warmer zones, it is important to note that in colder regions within its hardiness range, it may behave as a "tender perennial" and might not retain its foliage throughout the winter.
Growing and Caring for Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist'
- Light Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' thrives in locations that receive abundant sunlight, ideally a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While it flourishes in full sun, providing some afternoon shade can be beneficial, especially in regions with hot summer climates.
- Soil Well-drained soil is of paramount importance for the successful cultivation of Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist'. It prefers a neutral pH but demonstrates tolerance to slightly acidic or alkaline conditions. The plant thrives in loamy or sandy soils and dislikes heavy clay or wet soils, which can lead to root rot.
- Temperature and Hardiness Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4-9. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F (-28.9°C). However, it is important to remember that it performs best in cool summer climates, such as those found in the Pacific Northwest. Gardeners in hotter regions should consider providing afternoon shade and ensuring consistent moisture during periods of high heat.
- Planting To plant Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist', select a sunny location with well-drained soil. Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and amending it with organic matter like compost to enhance drainage and fertility. Space individual plants approximately 15 inches apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation.
- Watering Consistent watering is crucial, particularly during dry periods. Aim to provide about an inch of water per week. However, be mindful of overwatering, as this can create conditions conducive to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilizing Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' is not a heavy feeder and generally does not require frequent fertilization. If your soil is lacking in nutrients, you can supplement with a balanced fertilizer applied bimonthly during the growing season. Alternatively, a slow-release fertilizer applied once in the spring can provide sufficient nutrients.
Maintenance To ensure a continuous display of blooms and maintain a tidy appearance, deadhead spent flowers regularly. In the fall, cut back the flowering stems to prepare the plant for winter dormancy. Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' has a typical lifespan of 2-3 years. To ensure its continued presence in your garden, divide the plants every two to three years in early spring. This practice helps control growth, prevent overcrowding, and provides you with new plants.
In addition to division, Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' can also be propagated from seed. Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost, or directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Pests and Diseases
Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' is generally resilient to pests and diseases. It is also resistant to rabbits, making it a suitable choice for gardens where these furry creatures are a concern. While it is generally trouble-free, occasional issues with aphids, whiteflies, and powdery mildew may arise. To minimize the risk of powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering.
Potential Uses
Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' is a versatile plant that can enhance various garden settings. Here is a table summarizing its potential uses:
- Borders Its compact growth habit and long blooming season make it ideal for defining borders.
- Edging Can be used to create a charming and colorful edge along walkways or garden beds.
- Rock Gardens Its drought tolerance makes it well-suited for thriving in rock gardens.
- Cut Flowers The beautiful blooms are excellent for cutting and add a delicate touch to floral arrangements.
- Containers Can be grown in containers to add a pop of color to patios, balconies, or small spaces.
- Attracting Pollinators Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, contributing to a vibrant and biodiverse garden.
Scabiosa columbaria 'Pink Mist' is a truly delightful and low-maintenance perennial that offers an abundance of long-lasting blooms and remarkable versatility in the garden. By following the simple guidelines outlined in this guide, you can successfully cultivate this beauty and revel in its charming pink flowers throughout the growing season. Its adaptability to a range of conditions, coupled with its allure to pollinators, makes it a valuable and rewarding addition to any garden. Why not introduce this charming pincushion flower to your own garden this season? You will be captivated by its delicate beauty and the flurry of butterflies it attracts. For those seeking complementary companions for 'Pink Mist', consider planting it alongside Peach-Leaved Bellflower (Campanula persicifolia 'Takion Blue'), Reblooming Daylily (Hemerocallis 'Happy Returns'), or Cranesbill (Geranium 'Brookside'). Happy gardening!
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
