Macedonian scabiosa is a short-lived perennial with lovely crimson, pincushion-like flowers from early summer to early fall. It prefers average, well-drained soils in full sun. It has a tendency to flop and become untidy looking. Cottage gardens, wildflower gardens, pollinator gardens, and naturalized meadows are areas in which Macedonian scabiosa is a welcome addition.
Size and method of spreading:
Macedonian scabiosa reaches between 1 ½ to 2 feet tall and wide at maturity. It readily self-seeds.
Native geographic location and habitat:
The native range for Macedonian scabiosa includes Central Europe.
Pollinators and wildlife:
The red flowers of Macedonian scabiosa are known to attract bees, butterflies, and moths. The most frequent visitors to Macedonian scabiosa are bumblebees. Songbirds are known to use Macedonian scabiosa seeds as a food source.
Leaf description:
The leaves of Macedonian scabiosa are silvery-green. They grow around the base of the plant (basal) and in opposite pairs along the stem. The basal leaves may have fewer lobes or have smooth edges (entire), and the leaves higher along the stem are more deeply divided into featherlike (pinnate) lobes.
Flower description:
Macedonian scabiosa produces clusters of red flowers that form pincushion-like flower heads. The flower heads are up to 1 ½ inches in diameter. The individual flowers have a tubular petal-like structure (corolla) that separates into four deeply cut, irregularly sized lobes. The corolla surrounds four protruding, pollen-bearing structures (stamens). The outermost flowers in the flower head are larger than the inner flowers.
Fruit description:
The fruit of Macedonian scabiosa is small, dry, and does not open at maturity (achenes).
Plant Care:
Macedonian scabiosa may flop, but shorter cultivars are available. Since the plant is a short-lived perennial, allowing self-seeding can help to maintain populations.
List of pests, diseases, and tolerances:
Macedonian scabiosa is not prone to major issues with diseases, but it is susceptible to aphids.