Culture
Best grown in light, medium moisture, well-drained soils with a neutral pH in full sun. Good drainage is the key to growing this plant well. Allow soils to dry between waterings. Plants tend to rot in wet, poorly drained soils. Particularly intolerant of wet soils in winter, and benefits from a light, dry winter mulch. Best performance is in cool summer climates such as the Pacific Northwest. Plants are generally intolerant of high heat and humidity, and do not grow well in the deep South (south of USDA Zone 7). Remove spent flowers to encourage additional bloom.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Scabiosa, commonly called pincushion flower, is a genus of about 80 species of annuals, biennials and perennials primarily from the Mediterranean region but also from other parts of Europe, the Caucasus, Africa, Asia and Japan.
The genus name Scabiosa comes from the Latin scabies meaning the itch in reference to the plant's rough leaves which could supposedly cure scurvy.
‘Grand Stone’ is a clump-forming pincushion flower that produces large lavender-blue blooms (to 3” wide) with lime green centers singly atop strong, sturdy stems typically rising to 20” tall. Flowers will bloom continuously from May to frost as long as spent flowers are promptly removed. Each flower features an outer ring of frilly, flat, lavender-blue petals and a domed, lime-green center cushion. The center cushion of each flower purportedly resembles a pin cushion full of pins, hence the common name. Foliage features entire basal leaves and pinnately-lobed stem leaves.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Must have well-drained soil to thrive. Watch for aphids and whiteflies. Powdery mildew may occur.
Uses
Small groups or mass. Borders, cottage gardens, cutting gardens or containers.