Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana', commonly known as Fata Morgana Pincushion Flower, is a stunning variety of the Scabiosa genus, known for its unique and striking two-tone flowers. This ornamental perennial is valued for its long-lasting blooms and the intriguing color pattern of its flowers, making it a standout in gardens and floral arrangements.

Key Features of Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana':

1. Appearance:

The flowers of Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' are large, round, and have the distinctive pincushion shape characteristic of the Scabiosa species.
The blooms feature an intriguing color pattern, with the outer petals being a soft cream or pale yellow, transitioning into a deeper, darker center that may range from lavender to a soft pink, creating a beautiful two-tone effect.
The flowers measure about 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) in diameter and are borne on long, slender stems that rise above the basal foliage, creating an airy, elegant appearance.

2. Growth Habit:

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' is a herbaceous perennial, though it is often grown as an annual in colder climates.
The plant typically reaches a height of 60-90 cm (24-36 inches) and has a spread of 30-45 cm (12-18 inches), forming a bushy clump with deeply lobed, dark green leaves.
The plant's upright stems support the unique flowers above the foliage, creating a graceful, airy effect in the garden.

3. Flowers and Blooming Period:

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' blooms from late spring to early fall, producing its unusual two-tone flowers throughout the growing season.
The flowers are known for their long-lasting nature, retaining their shape and color in both fresh and dried flower arrangements.
The unique color contrast of the outer petals and the dark, contrasting center makes these flowers stand out in any garden, attracting both attention and pollinators.

4. Uses:

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' is grown primarily for ornamental purposes. It adds a soft, yet striking, focal point to flower beds, borders, and cottage gardens.
The flowers are excellent for cutting and making floral arrangements, as they retain their shape and color well in vases.
It can also be planted in containers or hanging baskets for a more compact display in smaller garden spaces.

5. Care:

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, where it produces the best flowers and maintains a strong growth habit.
It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells to maintain healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Regular deadheading (removing spent flowers) helps prolong the blooming period and keeps the plant looking neat.
Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer can encourage robust growth and improve flower production, particularly in nutrient-poor soils.

6. Attracts Pollinators:

The flowers of Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it a great addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

7. Low Maintenance:

Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' is relatively low-maintenance. It does not require extensive care once established and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, though it performs best in moderately fertile, well-drained soil.

In summary, Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Fata Morgana' is an elegant and distinctive perennial that features unique, two-tone pincushion flowers with a creamy outer edge and dark contrasting center. Its long-lasting blooms, attractive foliage, and ability to draw pollinators make it a lovely addition to gardens, borders, and floral arrangements.