Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Black Cat'
Black Cat Pincushion Flower
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Height
- 24 to 36 inches
- Width
- 12 to 18 inches
- Flower color
- Deep burgundy to nearly black pincushion flowers with contrasting pale pink stamens
- Foliage color
- Gray green finely divided foliage forming a loose clump
- Bloom time
- Early summer to fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; deadhead regularly to encourage continuous flowering and prevent excessive self seeding
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 9 to 11 grown as an annual in cooler climates
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees butterflies and other pollinators
About this plant
Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Black Cat' develops airy clumps of finely divided green foliage that form a soft, lacy base through the growing season. From early summer into early fall, slender stems carry rounded pincushion flowers in deep burgundy to near black tones, with small pale pink stamens throughout, giving the blooms a layered, velvety appearance.
The species originates from the Mediterranean region, where it has long been cultivated in ornamental and cutting gardens. In garden settings, 'Black Cat' is valued for borders, cottage plantings, and pollinator friendly beds, where its dark blossoms and open structure weave easily among perennials and provide long lasting cut flowers.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Shasta daisies · Asters · Catmint · Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
