Scabiosa 'Apricot Fata Morgana'

Apricot Fata Morgana Scabiosa (Scabiosa atropurpurea)

Create a whimsical, romantic feel in the garden with Apricot Fata Morgana Scabiosa. This stunning annual boasts large, frilly, double flowers that are a captivating shade of warm apricot to peachy-pink. The unique blooms, with their intricate texture and beautiful colour, appear on long, sturdy stems that are perfect for cutting. This Scabiosa is a prolific bloomer, providing a continuous show of flowers from summer until the first frost. A fantastic choice for sunny borders and beds, it also attracts an array of pollinators, especially butterflies. As a versatile cut flower, it has a long vase life, and the intriguing pincushion seed heads can also be used for beautiful dried arrangements. Also known as Mourning Bride, and Pincushion Flower.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: Lightly cover - needs light

GERMINATION: 10-12 days at 18-21°C

HEIGHT: 24-36”

MATURITY: 90 - 100 Days

SPACING: 12-15”

PINCH: No


HOW TO GROW:

Transplant (recommended): Sow seeds 4–6 weeks before your last expected frost date. Lightly press seeds into the soil surface and barely cover them with fine soil or vermiculite, as light aids germination. When the first set of true leaves appear, transplant the seedlings into cell packs or larger containers. In a greenhouse setting, maintain cooler temperatures of 10°C–13°C to prevent the plants from becoming leggy. Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seeding (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring after the last frost. For the best quality flowers and pods throughout the season, make successive plantings every 2-3 weeks until late spring.

Soil Preference and Watering: Scabiosa thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist during germination and establishment. Once mature, water regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Pinching and Support: Pinching is not necessary for Scabiosa, but deadheading spent blooms will encourage continuous flowering. Taller varieties may require some support, such as stakes or a ring, especially if grown in windy areas.