Pincushion Flower 'Beaujolais Bonnets'

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Beaujolais Bonnets' is a sophisticated annual that brings a touch of moody elegance to UK borders. Its unique flowers feature rich, burgundy-crimson outer petals that transition to a lighter, almost silvery-mauve centre, topped with white pin-like stamens that give it the common name. Reaching about 60cm in height, it has a branching habit and produces flowers on long, wiry stems which are perfect for cutting. This plant is a magnet for pollinators, particularly butterflies and hoverflies, making it an excellent choice for a wildlife-friendly garden. It flowers prolifically from early summer right through to the first frosts, provided it is regularly deadheaded. It thrives in well-drained soil in a sunny position and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Its rich, dark tones look exceptional when planted alongside silver-leaved plants or pale yellow flowers like Achillea. It is a hardy annual that can be sown directly or started earlier under cover.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug,Sep,Oct.