Cephalaria gigantea - Scabiosa gigantea - Giant Pincushion

As the name gigantea suggests, this impressive plant needs a good deal of room. It produces large up to 6cm, soft-yellow scabious-like flowers that are slightly fragrant on tall, widely branched stems. Stems rise from a large clump of mid-green leaves. Height in flower is 1.8m. Cephalaria gigantea is a hardy evergreen perennial.

It is water-wise with a deep foraging root system. It requires occasional deep watering rather than frequent smaller watering therefore able to withstand some periods of dry once established. Tough, easy and low maintenance. Grow in full sun or afternoon shade. Frost hardy and able to be grown in a wide range of soils so long as it is moist and well-drained.

This plant is a great choice for a see-through effect in a big border. Plants are self supporting but may need support in more windy locations.

Cephalaria ‘Gigantea’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Excellent cut flower.

Sow seeds in autumn as seeds need the cold to break their dormancy. If sowing seeds in a warmer area, place seeds in a water tight container in the fridge for at least 6 weeks before sowing. Seeds need light to germinate so do not sow them deeply. Place seeds on top of the soil and gently sprinkle a light covering of soil over them. Keep seeds damp but not wet. Seeds germinate at approx 20C. Grow seedlings to approx 10cm, harden off and then transfer into the garden.

Seeds currently available.

$5.00 - 10 open pollinated seeds

$4.00 - postage within Australia

Email to order - fascinatingbotanicals@gmail.com

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