SafePlants

Scabiosa & Nertera: The Charming Pincushion Plants

The name "pincushion plant" can refer to several different plant species, most notably those in the Scabiosa genus and Nertera granadensis. These plants are admired for their unique flower or fruit structures that resemble pincushions.

Scientific and Common Names

• Scabiosa: Commonly known as Pincushion Flower.
• Nertera granadensis: Also known as Coral Bead Plant, Pin-cushion Plant, Coral Moss, or English Baby Tears.
• Other common names for various pincushion plants include Bead Plant, Bobbejaanklou, Luisiesboom, Luisiesbos, Hattie's Pincushion, and Hatties Pincushion.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus (Scabiosa): Scabiosa
• Family (Scabiosa atropurpurea): Dipsacaceae
• Synonym (Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue'): S. columbaria 'Butterfly Blue'
• Genus (Astrantia): Astrantia
• Family (Astrantia): Apiaceae/Umbelliferae

Distribution and Habitat

• Nertera granadensis is native to many parts of the world.
• Scabiosa is popular in South Africa as a garden plant and cut flower.
• White-flowered pincushion-plant is native to the western U.S. and central Canada.
• Hardy in zones 9-11, but grows best in cooler conditions.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Nertera granadensis is a ground cover.
• Nertera granadensis reaches a max height of approximately 5 inches (13 cm).
• Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is a compact, clump-forming perennial that typically grows only 12-15 inches tall.
• Desert Pincushion grows up to one foot high and has fuzzy leaves divided into short, narrow lobes.
• Scabiosa flowers have long, thin stamens that protrude, resembling a pincushion.
• Scabiosa atropurpurea grows to 90cm.

Ecological Role

• Pincushion flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hoverflies.

Quirky Facts

• Old Scabiosa blooms appear similar to active blooms but are lighter in color and dry to the touch.
• Nertera granadensis produces orange berries.