Cream Pincushions

(Scabiosa ochroleuca)

Cream Pincushions (Scabiosa ochroleuca)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Scabiosa ochroleuca, commonly known as cream pincushions or cream scabious, is a perennial herb native to grasslands, meadows, and rocky slopes in Europe and western Asia. It typically grows to a height of up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) and has a clumping habit. The plant is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and creamy yellow flower heads, which bloom from late spring to early autumn and are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy en masse due to their abundance and the contrast with the green foliage.

Cream pincushions are valued for their long flowering period and their ability to attract beneficial insects to the garden. They are often used in perennial borders, wildflower meadows, and as part of pollinator-friendly plantings. This species is adaptable to a range of conditions but prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained, alkaline soils. It is relatively low maintenance, but deadheading can encourage prolonged blooming. While generally disease-resistant, Scabiosa ochroleuca can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. It is not known for being invasive and does not typically present problems with aggressive roots or other cultivation issues.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, meadows, and rocky slopes in Europe and western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Yellow Scabious, Cream Scabious

Scientific Names: , Scabiosa ochroleuca, Asterocephalus bipinnatus, Asterocephalus flavescens, Asterocephalus luteus, Asterocephalus montanus, Asterocephalus ochroleucus, Asterocephalus scopolii, Asterocephalus webbianus, Columbaria ochroleuca

GBIF Accepted Name: