Pointers on Pincushion Flower

For years I have tried to grow pincushion flowers in my garden, but they always die and don't come back. They are supposed to be hardy in my zone, and they flourish in my neighbor's yard. Can you give me some pointers?

These short lived perennials often bloom themselves to death. Try extending their life span by planting them in an area with good soil drainage. The Caucasian pincushion flower (Scabiosa caucasica) is hardy in zones 3 to 7 and prefers cool temperatures. Plant it in an area protected from the hot midday and late afternoon sun. Mulch the soil to keep the roots cool. Cutting the plants back in late summer will stop the blooming and encourage energy producing leaf growth. Or just enjoy the season long bloom. I love the flowers in the garden and indoors in a vase. If the plants don’t return the next season I still feel I received a great return on my investment.

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