ellen 
I started this flower from seed and wasn’t quite convinced that it would flower into the beautiful pincushions I’d seen in the catalog. But low and behold, here they are, making a nice showing of purplish black dots throughout the garden. Seen as black when planted next to purples, yellows, and reds, Black Scabiosa are great conversation. Some varieties are perennial, but this black one is not tolerant to Chicago cold. Nick-named the “ace of spades,” ” black knight,” and my personal favorite “black cat.” Best grown in full sun (a butterfly favorite), dead head to keep the blooms coming (great as cut flowers).