About

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Foto Morgana' is an ornamental scabious prized for its red to purple pincushion flowers. It sits in the Caprifoliaceae family and the genus Sixalix. Plants bear pinnately dissected cauline leaves and set seed that is dispersed by animals. It prefers cooler conditions and suits rich, alkaline soils with good drainage.

In the garden

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Foto Morgana' is an ornamental scabious from southern Europe, placed in the Caprifoliaceae family and the genus Sixalix. The cultivar is grown for its red to purple pincushion flowers, which open on stems above pinnately dissected cauline leaves. Seed set is natural and dispersal is by animals, so plants can establish where conditions suit. Sit 'Foto Morgana' in a cool, well-drained spot and aim for soil that is rich in organic matter and on the alkaline side; heavy, waterlogged soils will reduce vigour. High temperatures and humid conditions impair growth, so avoid the hottest, most humid corners of a garden. Regular deadheading encourages repeated bloom, while allowing some seed heads to mature will support self-seeding if that is desirable. Use it where cut blooms are required: the variety makes a good cut flower and performs well in mixed borders and dedicated cutting beds. Because flowers are borne on distinct pincushion heads, pick stems when the heads are fully open for best results in arrangements, and be aware that the plant’s tendency to set seed can spread it where birds or mammals move the ripe seed pods.

From the Fenn Plants journal

• Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
• Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
• Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.