The plant gets its name 'Pincushion Flower' because the stamens protrude from the center of the flower appearing like pins stuck in a cushion. Scabiosa atropurpurea, can be started from seed indoors in early spring then planted outdoors, after all danger of frost. Or, they can be seeded directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Like the perennial varieties the annuals grow and flower best in full sun. Flowers are very similar in shape and possibly just a bit smaller in size.
Flower colors range in shades of deep maroon, lavender-blue, rose, pink and white.
Their flowering season extends from mid-summer into the fall months. Plants may need staking, for added support. Scabiosa columbaria is one of the perennial 'Pincushion flower' species. Perfecta', Scabiosa caucasica has pale blue flowers with an attractive white-center. The foliage only grows about 8 to 10 inches high, so the flowers standout nicely above the scalloped leaves.