Pincushion flowers (Scabiosa) are known for their distinct, rounded blooms that resemble a pincushion. These plants offer continuous flowers from spring through fall, adding color and texture to garden beds. A common concern for gardeners is the potential impact of local wildlife, particularly deer, on ornamental plantings.
Deer Resistance of Pincushion Flowers
Pincushion flowers are widely recognized as deer-resistant plants. While no plant is entirely “deer-proof,” Scabiosa varieties are generally not a preferred food source for deer and are rarely browsed. Gardeners can typically rely on them to remain untouched, even in areas with active deer populations. This resistance makes them a suitable choice for landscapes where deer are present.
Deer may sample a plant if other food sources are scarce. However, pincushion flowers’ low palatability usually deters sustained feeding, causing deer to move on to more appealing options.
Reasons for Deer Resistance
Deer avoid pincushion flowers due to several plant characteristics. The foliage of Scabiosa often has a texture unappealing to deer. Many deer-resistant plants possess coarse, hairy, or prickly leaves, which are less pleasant for deer to chew.
Beyond texture, the taste and scent also contribute to their resistance. Deer typically avoid plants with strong or bitter flavors. Pincushion flowers likely possess chemical compounds unpalatable or off-putting to deer, acting as a natural deterrent.
Factors Influencing Deer Foraging Behavior
Even deer-resistant plants like pincushion flowers can be browsed under specific environmental conditions. Extreme hunger, especially during harsh winters or droughts when preferred food sources are scarce, can compel deer to eat plants they would normally avoid. In such situations, deer may sample a wider range of vegetation to meet their nutritional needs.
Deer overpopulation can also increase foraging pressure on all available plants. Young or newly planted pincushion flowers may be more vulnerable to browsing due to their tender foliage. These instances highlight that no plant is absolutely immune to deer activity.
Protecting Pincushion Flowers from Deer
If deer become an issue for pincushion flowers, several protective measures can be employed. Applying deer repellents is a common strategy, including scent-based repellents that emit odors deer dislike, and taste-based repellents that make foliage unpalatable. Commercial repellents are effective, and some gardeners use homemade solutions with ingredients like eggs, garlic, or hot peppers.
Physical barriers, such as temporary netting or small fencing, can shield new or prized plants. Interplanting pincushion flowers with other strongly scented, deer-resistant plants like lavender or rosemary can also deter deer. Rotating repellent types and reapplying after rain or new growth maximizes effectiveness.