'Starflower Pincushion' Scabiosa

Scabiosa stellata

Origin: Mediterranean

Improvement status: Cultivated wild material

Seeds per packet: ~40

Germination tested 2/2024: 79%

Life cycle: Annual

This species of scabiosa is quite distinct from the others in that its seedhead is the most ornamental part of the plant. As grower Frank Morton describes it: "The flowers are small, pale blue, and understated, followed by the seedhead, which is a showpiece of botanical architecture. Comprised of 'shuttlecocks' joined at the base into a textured globe, these seedheads can be used fresh or dry." When we first saw this plant, we knew we just had to try it!