Starflower Pincushion (Drumstick)

Starflower Pincushions is a mesmerizing plant, producing delicate, lilac - pale purple-blue flowers that later transform into striking, papery seed pods that resemble intricate starry globes. A member of the honeysuckle family, this fragrant annual grows to about 24-30 inches tall and that brings beauty to the garden and charm to dried floral arrangements. Enjoy the beautiful lilac flower in flower beds, borders, and cottage gardens, where it adds a delicate yet striking touch, then enjoy their transformation for dried flowers later. Gardeners and floral-lovers adore Starflower Pincushions for their long-lasting beauty and versatility. Its fascinating seed heads extend its visual appeal long after the flowers have faded, making it a favorite for dried flower arrangements, adding texture and interest to bouquets, wreaths, and dried decor. Pollinators, including bees and butterflies, love its nectar-rich blooms, making it a wonderful choice for supporting beneficial insects.

Also Known As: Starflower, Drumstick Scabiosa, Paper Moon Scabiosa, Ping Pong Flower, Sternkugel Flower, Star Ball Scabiosa, Pincushion Flower, Stellata Scabiosa, Scabiosa Starball, Purple Star Scabiosa, Dried Starflower, Globe Scabiosa.

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose an area with heavy, well-draining soil that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, form rows of soil beds 4-6 inches high and at least 2 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting for cut flowers easier. Lay down 1/2"-3/4" peat moss, sawdust, or potting soil, the soil surface. This layer is beneficial for flower seeds because it can the improve the germination environment and prevent soil crusting.

Planting:

Starting Indoors: For earlier blooms, you may optionally cold-stratify seeds for at least 30 days then start planting indoors in containers 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date in Spring, keeping seedlings at least 65F. Harden off then transplant seedlings outdoors in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 60F. To transplant seedlings, prepare a transplant hole outdoors in a sunny location. Remove the plants carefully from the pots or flats and set them in the transplant holes, burying some of the stem in the ground. Pack the soil loosely around the plant and leave a slightly sunken area around each plant to hold water. Water the plants after transplanting.

Directly Sowing: If directly sowing outdoors, plant after the first hard frost in early Spring to cold-stratify seeds. Plants will germinate in late Spring when the soil warms to at least 60F. Fall planting is not recommended unless planting outdoors in environments with mild, frost-free winters, or planting indoors with supplemental grow lights. For blooms in late Spring of the following year, sow outdoors after the first hard frost in Fall to cold-stratify seeds. To plant, make holes 1/8 inch deep and spaced 8-12 inches apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 2-3 seeds per hole, then cover thinly with soil. In small plots, flower seeds may be scattered and gently watered in. Once seedlings emerge, plants can separated and spaced 8-12 inches apart to allow room for mature plants to spread and prevent overcrowding. Water after planting.

Care During the Season:

Starflower Pincushion care is relatively simple. Water it regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering, as this plant prefers drier conditions once established. It is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from occasional light fertilization during the growing season to support its growth. As the plant matures, you can trim back dead or damaged stems to keep it tidy and promote fresh growth. In colder climates, protect the plant from harsh winter conditions by mulching around the base. This flower is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping or low-maintenance gardens.

Harvesting:

To harvest Starflower Pincushions for dried flowers, wait until the blooms are fully open but still vibrant in color, typically during late summer or early fall. Cut the stems about 6-8 inches below the bloom, using sharp scissors or pruning shears, in the late morning after the dew has dried. It's best to harvest before the flowers start to fade or drop petals. Once cut, bundle the flowers in small groups, securing them with rubber bands or string, and hang them upside down in a dry, cool, dark place with good air circulation. Allow them to dry for 2-3 weeks, testing for crispness before storing them in a cool, dry place until ready for use in arrangements.