Scabiosa Flowers Explained: Care, Colours, Vase Life and Wedding Uses
- Su Whale
- 19 hours ago
- 3 min read
The lavender blue Scabiosa or scabious, is a popular cut flower and a welcome addition to any garden border. Its delicate papery petals surround a distinctive hard centre that resembles a pin cushion. The relatively recent introduction of Dutch grower Danziger’s Scoop Series has expanded its previously limited colours of pale blue and cream to a dazzling range including rich red, deep pink, raspberry and maroon.
Buying Scabiosa
Stem Length: 50–80 cm. Typically sold in batches of 25 stems
When to buy: Scabiosa is available year round from wholesalers, although it will always be at its best when bought in its natural flowering season, June to September. This is also when it can be picked up from UK growers.
Scabiosa Cut Flower Guide
Family: Caprifoliaceae.
Genus: Scabiosa.
Common Name: Scabious, Pincushion flower.
Vase Life: 7-10 days.
Colour Range: Cream, pale blue, lavender and all shades of red and pink.
Ideal temperature range: 2-5°C.
How to Care for Scabiosa as a Cut Flower
Re-cut stems on arrival with a sharp knife or scissors.
Remove any damaged leaves or any foliage that will be in contact with water.
Scabiosa are sensitive to ethylene gas which will cause petal drop.
They are a water polluter, always use clean containers and change water daily, adding flower food.
Scabiosa used in a floral design displayed in a white vase tall Scabiosa floral design displayed in a home
Scabiosa in Wedding and Design work
Scabiosa is a delightful bridal flower with a cottage garden vibe and an interesting texture which will enhance bouquets. Use the pastel cream, blue and lavender shades for summer brides, and the richer, bolder Scoop Series for autumn designs. Scabiosa can get a little lost in larger arrangements, overshadowed by more dominant flowers, but is perfect for table vases as it prefers to be arranged in water. Can be wired with care and also glued.
Scabiosa stellata
This variety dries to a perfectly cylindrical seedhead which looks fabulous in seasonal autumnal schemes.
How to dry Scabiosa
The flowerhead can be dried using the air-drying method. Simply remove any unnecessary foliage before hanging small bunches upside down in a warm, well-ventilated spot.
How to grow Scabiosa
These are sun loving flowers that won’t thrive in shade, they also need well-drained soil with a south or west facing aspect. Perennial varieties will need winter protection and shelter from frost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Scabiosa last in a vase?
Scabiosa typically has a vase life of 7 to 10 days when stems are re-cut on arrival, displayed in clean water, and kept away from ethylene-producing fruit.
Is Scabiosa available all year round?
Yes, Scabiosa is generally available year-round through wholesalers, although flowers are usually at their best during their natural flowering season from June to September.
What colours do Scabiosa come in?
Scabiosa is available in cream, pale blue, lavender, pink, red, raspberry and maroon shades, particularly through the popular Scoop Series varieties.
Is Scabiosa suitable for wedding flowers?
Yes, Scabiosa is a popular wedding flower thanks to its delicate appearance, unique pincushion-shaped centre and cottage garden charm. It works particularly well in bridal bouquets and table arrangements.
Can Scabiosa be dried?
Yes, Scabiosa can be air-dried by hanging small bunches upside down in a warm, well-ventilated location. Scabiosa stellata is especially valued for its decorative dried seedheads.
Images of Scabiosa Scoop curtesy of Danziger.
Su Whale is a florist and freelance writer with over Thirty years' experience in the floristry industry. She is the author and publisher of three best-selling books: Cut Flowers, 4th edition (2020) Cut Foliage, 2nd Edition, (2021) and Houseplants (2019), all bookshelf essentials for the professional florist.
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