Agrostemma githago aka Corncockle

Taxonomy

Genus Agrostemma Family Caryophyllaceae Order Caryophyllales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Agrostemma githago, commonly known as corn-cockle or corncockle, is a herbaceous annual flowering plant belonging to the pink and carnation family Caryophyllaceae. 'Ocean Pearl', a much-branched variety, features narrow, greyish leaves and abundant white flowers. These solitary blooms exhibit fine dark speckling in the throat and typically appear during the summer season. Originally native to Europe, corn cockle is an annual herb and weed that has naturalized in most parts of the USA. The plant's stems are hairy, adorned with opposite narrow leaves, while its flowers consist of five pink to purple petals that bloom throughout the summer. Unfortunately, this plant is becoming increasingly rare due to modern farming practices.

Common names

Corncockle, Common Corncockle, Cockle, Corn Cockle

How to care for Corncockle

Water

Corncockle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Corncockle loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Corncockle prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Corncockle is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Growth-pattern

Corncockle grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Corncockle’s native range is Europe. Naturalized in Britain.

More info:
Wikipedia

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