Centaurea cyanus aka Cornflower
Taxonomy
Centaurea cyanus, commonly known as cornflower or bachelor's button, is an annual flowering plant in the family Asteraceae native to Europe. It typically grows between 1 to 3 feet tall, with lance-shaped, grey-green leaves. The plant produces large and showy flower-heads from late spring through the summer, featuring deep blue florets surrounding dark purple stamens in the center. These fragrant flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators, while the seeds are a source of food for birds. In the past, it was considered a weed in cornfields, giving rise to its name. Unfortunately, Centaurea cyanus is now endangered in its native habitat due to the overuse of herbicides and agricultural intensification. However, it has been introduced as an ornamental plant in gardens and has also spread as a seed contaminant in crop seeds in various parts of the world, including North America and parts of Australia.
Common names
Cornflower, Bachelor's Button, HurtsickleHow to care for Cornflower
Difficulty
Cornflower requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Cornflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Cornflower 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
Cornflower requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Cornflower will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Toxicity
Cornflower is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Fertilizer
The Cornflower should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Cornflower’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, to the Near East.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Centaurea Genus
Centaurea decipiens Centaurea Decipiens
Centaurea benedicta Blessed Thistle
Centaurea Knapweed
Centaurea acaulis Stemless Star Thistle
Centaurea calcitrapa Purple Star Thistle
Centaurea caprina Centaurea Caprina
Centaurea scabiosa Greater Knapweed
Centaurea nigra Spanish Buttons
Centaurea macrocephala Bighead Knapweed
