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Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is a delicate and enchanting flower that has become increasingly popular in the world of floral design, particularly in dried arrangements. Known for its soft, lavender-blue petals and charming pincushion-like blooms, this perennial flower is not only a favorite among gardeners but also a sought-after choice for dried flower enthusiasts. The rise of dried flowers in home decor, wedding arrangements, and crafts has brought attention to specific varieties like Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue,' which offers both aesthetic appeal and versatility. In this article, we will explore why Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' has become a popular dried flower choice, delving into its characteristics, drying methods, creative uses, and tips for working with this captivating bloom.
To understand why Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is favored as a dried flower, it is important to consider its unique characteristics.
a. Appearance
Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is characterized by its lavender-blue, dainty petals that form a round, pincushion-like head. The flowers are typically 2 to 3 inches in diameter and bloom atop slender stems that can reach heights of up to 18 inches. The overall appearance is delicate and airy, making it an excellent choice for adding softness and subtle color to floral arrangements. When dried, the color of the petals may soften slightly, but the overall structure of the flower remains intact, retaining its charm.
b. Blooming Season
This perennial flower blooms profusely from late spring through early fall, providing a long window of time during which the flowers can be harvested for drying. The extended blooming season ensures that Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is available for a significant portion of the year, making it a reliable choice for dried flower projects.
c. Color and Texture Retention
One of the key reasons for the popularity of Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' as a dried flower is its ability to retain both color and texture after drying. While some flowers lose their vibrancy when dried, Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' maintains a soft, muted version of its original lavender-blue hue, which is highly sought after in dried arrangements. The texture of the petals also remains intact, preserving the flower's intricate details and overall shape.
d. Longevity
Dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is known for its longevity. When properly dried and stored, these flowers can last for years, making them an excellent choice for long-lasting arrangements and decor. This durability adds to their appeal, as they require minimal maintenance and do not wilt or decay like fresh flowers.
The process of drying Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is relatively straightforward, but achieving the best results requires attention to detail and proper techniques.
a. Air Drying
Air drying is one of the most common methods used to preserve Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue.' To air dry these flowers, they should be harvested when they are fully open but before they begin to wilt. The flowers should then be stripped of excess foliage and hung upside down in small bunches in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area. The darkness helps preserve the color, while the ventilation prevents mold and mildew. After approximately two to three weeks, the flowers will be fully dried and ready for use.
b. Silica Gel Drying
For those who wish to retain more of the flower's original color and shape, drying with silica gel is an effective method. Silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture from the flowers, preserving their appearance more precisely. To dry Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' with silica gel, the flowers should be placed in an airtight container filled with the gel, ensuring that they are completely covered. After a few days to a week, the flowers will be fully dried. This method is particularly useful for preserving the delicate structure and color of the petals.
c. Pressing
Pressing is another method that can be used to dry Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue,' particularly if the flowers are to be used in crafts such as card making, scrapbooking, or framed art. To press the flowers, they should be placed between sheets of parchment paper and then weighted down with heavy books or a flower press. After a few weeks, the flowers will be flat and dry, ready for creative use.
d. Microwave Drying
Microwave drying is a quicker method that can be used to dry Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue,' although it requires more careful monitoring. The flowers should be placed between layers of paper towels or in a microwave-safe container with silica gel and then microwaved in short intervals at a low power setting. This method can dry the flowers in a matter of minutes, but there is a risk of overheating, which could damage the flowers.
Dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' can be used in a variety of creative ways, adding elegance and a touch of nature to numerous projects.
a. Floral Arrangements
Dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is a popular choice for floral arrangements, both on its own and as part of a larger composition. Its delicate appearance and muted color make it an excellent filler flower in bouquets, centerpieces, and wreaths. The soft blue hue pairs well with other dried flowers and foliage in complementary colors, such as whites, creams, and soft greens. Whether arranged in a rustic, wildflower bouquet or a more structured, formal arrangement, dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' adds a touch of grace and refinement.
b. Wedding Decor
Dried flowers have become a popular choice for weddings, offering a sustainable and long-lasting alternative to fresh blooms. Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is particularly favored for wedding decor due to its romantic and timeless appeal. It can be used in bridal bouquets, boutonnieres, and corsages, as well as in table centerpieces, altar arrangements, and floral arches. The soft, muted blue of the dried Scabiosa adds a gentle pop of color without overpowering other elements, making it suitable for a variety of wedding themes, from rustic to vintage to bohemian.
c. Crafts and DIY Projects
The versatility of dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' extends to various crafts and DIY projects. The flowers can be used to create pressed flower art, decorate handmade candles, or embellish greeting cards and gift wrapping. The small, compact size of the blooms makes them easy to work with, and their long-lasting nature ensures that the finished projects will endure. Additionally, dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' can be incorporated into handmade soaps, potpourri, or even as part of natural, botanical-themed jewelry.
d. Home Decor
Dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' can be used to enhance home decor in a variety of ways. Simple arrangements in vases or jars can add a touch of natural beauty to any room, while more elaborate designs, such as wreaths or garlands, can be used to decorate walls, doors, or mantels. The muted blue of the flowers complements a wide range of interior design styles, from modern minimalism to cozy cottage chic. Additionally, the flowers can be incorporated into seasonal decor, such as fall or winter arrangements, adding a soft, cooling element to the warm tones often associated with these seasons.
e. Gift Wrapping and Packaging
Dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' can also be used to elevate gift wrapping and packaging. Tying a few stems to the top of a wrapped gift with twine or ribbon adds a personalized and thoughtful touch. The flowers can also be used to decorate gift boxes, favor bags, or even handmade gift tags. The natural beauty of the dried flowers enhances the presentation of any gift, making it feel more special and unique.
To achieve the best results when using dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue,' consider the following tips:
a. Handle with Care
Dried flowers are more fragile than fresh ones, so it's important to handle Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' with care to avoid crushing or breaking the delicate petals and stems. When arranging or crafting with the flowers, use gentle movements and avoid pressing too hard.
b. Store Properly
To preserve the color and shape of dried Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue,' store the flowers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent fading and deterioration over time. If storing for an extended period, consider placing the flowers in an airtight container to protect them from dust and moisture.
c. Combine with Other Dried Flowers
While Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' is beautiful on its own, it can also be combined with other dried flowers to create more dynamic and textured arrangements. Consider pairing it with dried lavender, eucalyptus, or baby's breath for a soft and romantic look, or with dried wheat and grasses for a more rustic feel.
d. Experiment with Placement
The long stems of Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' make it a versatile flower for arrangements of varying heights and dimensions. Experiment with placing the flowers at different heights within an arrangement to create depth and visual interest.
e. Refresh and Reposition
Over time, dried flowers may shift or settle within an arrangement. Periodically check your arrangements and refresh them as needed by repositioning stems or adding new elements. This will help maintain the appearance and integrity of your designs.
Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' has earned its place as a popular dried flower choice due to its delicate beauty, versatility, and ability to retain color and texture after drying. Whether used in elegant floral arrangements, creative crafts, or thoughtful gifts, this enchanting bloom adds a touch of natural elegance to any project. The ease of drying and long-lasting nature of Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to incorporate dried flowers into their decor or creative endeavors. By exploring various drying methods, experimenting with different uses, and carefully handling and storing the flowers, you can fully appreciate the charm and versatility of Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' as a dried flower. Its enduring appeal, coupled with its gentle lavender-blue hue, ensures that it will remain a beloved choice for dried flower enthusiasts and floral designers alike. Whether you're creating a romantic wedding bouquet, a rustic home decor piece, or a unique craft project, Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue' offers endless possibilities to inspire and delight.