cornflowers

Centaurea cyanus, commonly known as the cornflower or bachelor’s button, is an annual flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and has been widely cultivated and naturalized in other regions. The plant typically grows 15–60 cm tall, with slender, branching stems and narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Flower heads are usually vivid blue, about 2–3 cm in diameter, composed of fringed ray florets surrounding a central cluster of disc florets; many cultivars exist in white, pink, or purple.

Cornflower favors well-drained soils and full sun, and is commonly found in old fields, meadows, and garden borders. As an annual, it often self-seeds from year to year. The plant attracts bees and other pollinators and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. In some climates it can behave as a short-lived perennial or be considered a weed in cultivated ground.

Cultivation and uses: It is widely grown as an ornamental plant in borders and wildflower mixes, valued for its long-lasting cut flowers. It is easy to grow from seed: sow in spring or cool-season sowing for early blooms. Deadheading can prolong flowering. Traditionally the petals have been used for edible decorations, and the flower has been used to produce blue dyes; in herbal medicine, parts of the plant have been used in some folk remedies, though scientific support is limited.

Cultural significance: The cornflower has cultural associations in several European countries and is often used as a symbol of rural life. In France, the bleuet (cornflower) is a national symbol and a remembrance emblem, particularly associated with veterans and commemoration.