Scabiosa ‘Red Velvet,’ also known as Pincushion Flower, features deep red, velvety, cushion-shaped blooms with soft, ruffled petals. These vibrant flowers add visual interest to any landscape and attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, contributing to a lively garden ecosystem.
Planting Scabiosa ‘Red Velvet’
Plant Scabiosa ‘Red Velvet’ in early spring after the last frost, or in late fall in mild winter regions. They thrive in full sun (at least six hours daily), benefiting from afternoon shade in hot climates.
They prefer well-draining, moderately fertile soil rich in organic matter, with a pH of 6.0-6.5. Avoid heavy clay soils, which retain too much moisture. Before planting, loosen the soil to 12 inches deep and incorporate compost. When transplanting, set the root ball even with the soil line, spacing plants 9-15 inches apart for air circulation. Cover seeds lightly with 1/4 inch of soil.
Ongoing Care for Scabiosa ‘Red Velvet’
Water newly planted Scabiosa ‘Red Velvet’ consistently, about an inch weekly, to establish roots. Once established, they tolerate some drought but benefit from regular watering during dry periods. Avoid overwatering; allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root issues. Water at the base to prevent fungal problems.
Scabiosa ‘Red Velvet’ are light feeders, generally not requiring heavy fertilization. A bimonthly application of a balanced fertilizer can encourage more blooms throughout the growing season. Mulch around the base retains soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and insulates roots. This variety is hardy in USDA Zones 3-9, typically returning for 2-3 years. In colder climates, cut stems back to basal leaves in fall and apply a light mulch layer for winter protection, especially from excessive moisture.
Pruning and Deadheading
Pruning and deadheading promote continuous blooming and plant health. Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, encourages new blooms by preventing seed production. Clip spent flower stems to the basal foliage or a leaf joint for a tidy appearance. This extends the blooming period from spring until the first frost.
More substantial pruning can shape the plant or encourage new growth. Shearing the entire plant in midsummer can stimulate a new wave of blooms in early fall if initial flowering has slowed. For young plants, pinch the central stem when under eight inches tall by removing the top two to three sets of leaves. This leads to a more productive, bushier plant, yielding more flowers over time, though un-pinched plants may bloom earlier.
Common Problems and Solutions
Scabiosa ‘Red Velvet’ can face common problems like pests and diseases. Pests include aphids, slugs, spider mites, and thrips. Apply a mild insecticide, neem oil, or a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Good air circulation also deters infestations.
Diseases like powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot are often linked to overly wet conditions or poor air circulation. Ensure well-draining soil and water at the plant’s base, not overhead, to reduce fungal disease risk. Crown gall, a bacterial infection, may also affect Scabiosa; infected plants should be removed and disposed of to prevent spread.
Environmental factors can cause wilting or a lack of blooms. Wilting often results from improper watering (too little or too much) or excessive heat. Adjust watering schedules and provide afternoon shade in hot climates to mitigate wilting. If the plant produces abundant foliage but few flowers, it may indicate insufficient sunlight or a high-nitrogen fertilizer. Ensure adequate full sun and use a balanced fertilizer to encourage more blooms.