Each seed packet contains approximately 100 seeds.

-Due to international Customs regulations- Seeds SHIP WITHIN THE US ONLY-

Purple Pincushion flowers or Scabiosa atropurpurea are a beautiful garden addition and the color resulting can range from deep purple, to teal, bluish green. My favorite use for purple pincushion is in bundle dyeing. This ‘anthocyanin’ based dye contained in the deep purple flowers is not known to be lightfast, but in a direct & concentrated application such a bundle dyeing or ecoprinting- the color has remained stable on all textiles I have dyed. I also love making flower paint (a wonderful activity to do with children) with purple pincushion flowers because the dye from this plant is responsive to pH changes- shifting dramatically in color from purple to pink blue and green with small additions of baking soda (alkaline) or lemon juice (acidic) to the paint. I’ve also enjoyed using purple pincushion dye to dye wood beads.

You can start these seeds indoors in late winter to early spring in average to well-fertilized soil, protecting them from potential frost until they’re established and can be transplanted outdoors in warmer weather. They can grow well in containers as well as in the ground and will appreciate well draining soil and a sunny spot. Germination will also be improved with a bit of light, so just barely cover (if at all) the seeds with soil, and a grow light may help speed up germination in early spring. Once established and the plant starts blooming, it’s best to pick flowers often, or ‘dead head’ the waning flowers to keep the plant producing blooms for a longer period.

See my Pincushion, Hollyhock & Hopi Sunflower Lesson to learn more about cultivating & dyeing with this plant.