Scabiosa 'Fama Blue'

Scabiosa Fama Blue (Scabiosa caucasica)

Standing like a jewel on slender stems, Scabiosa ‘Fama’ unfurls sumptuous pincushion blooms up to 4 in across. Each ruffled petal frames a textured centre of stamens, the deep lilac-blue flowers tipping above the foliage in graceful display. Clump-forming and elegant, this perennial habit gives form and airiness to borders, cottage gardens, and cutting patches alike.

From midsummer to the first touch of frost, ‘Fama’ rewards the gardener with a steady procession of blooms when spent flowers are removed. Favoured by bees and butterflies, its nectar-rich heads make a statement in pollinator gardens. In the vase, its long, clean stems and generous blossoms hold strong—a perfect match with pale peach roses for contrast or creamy white hydrangea for a dreamy garden-party palette.

DETAILS:

QTY: 20

TYPE: Perennial

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: Lightly cover - needs light

GERMINATION: 10-12 days at 18-21°C

HEIGHT: 26-30”

MATURITY: 105 - 140 Days

SPACING: 12-18”

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.