Scabiosa, Butterfly Blue
Best low-maintenance perennial for gardeners wanting to attract butterflies.
The Scabiosa, Butterfly Blue, also known as Pincushion Flower, is a delightful addition to any garden. This trouble-free plant produces an abundance of soft, lacy 1.5 to 2-inch lavender-blue blooms from spring through fall, even tolerating summer heat. Butterflies are strongly attracted to its nectar, making it a wonderful choice for attracting pollinators. It thrives in full sun and is suitable for growing zones 3 to 9, reaching a mature height of 12-18 inches. This variety was recognized as the Perennial Plant of the Year.
$16.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1042
/ 2886
#1042 in Plants
Price vs Category Average
-61%
Below average
Growing Zones
39
/ to
Who it's for
- Busy gardeners wanting low-effort, deer-proof floral displays
- Gardeners seeking season-long color and visual interest
- Eco-conscious homeowners supporting local pollinator populations
Who should skip it
- Gardeners working with heavy, poorly draining clay soils
- Gardeners expecting long-term, permanent perennial plantings
- Low-maintenance enthusiasts avoiding frequent garden chores
Performance breakdown
Pollinator attraction
High nectar production makes this a magnet for local butterfly populations.
Bloom duration
Consistent flowering from spring through fall provides reliable seasonal color.
Heat tolerance
Maintains structural integrity and bloom quality during intense summer heat waves.
Maintenance requirements
A trouble-free perennial that thrives with minimal intervention from the gardener.
Hardiness range
Versatile growing zones allow for successful cultivation across most climates.
Visual appeal
Soft, lacy lavender-blue petals offer a sophisticated texture for garden borders.
Key Specs
Growing Zones
3 to 9
Light Requirements
Full Sun
Height
12-18"
Genus
Scabiosa
Species
hybrida
Subspecies
Blue Scabiosa
Common Name
Scabiosa, Butterfly Blue
Size Shipped
Potted
Know before you buy
Yes, Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is known for its continuous blooming habit. It produces flowers from spring through fall and is specifically noted for its ability to maintain blooms even during periods of summer heat.
This variety requires full sun to perform at its best. For the most abundant blooms, ensure it is planted in a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily.
Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is quite versatile, as it is hardy in growing zones 3 through 9. This wide range makes it suitable for most regions in the United States, provided it is planted after the danger of frost has passed.
Since this plant reaches a mature height of 12 to 18 inches, it works well in the front or middle of a garden border. Space them about 12 to 15 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation as they reach their full size.
This is considered a trouble-free perennial, meaning it requires minimal effort once established. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage even more flower production throughout the season, but it is not strictly necessary for the plant's health.
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