Cornflower (bachelor's button)
Centaurea cyanus
Annual ornamental wildflower with vivid blue, pink, or white thistle-like blooms; attracts pollinators and grows easily in well-drained soil and full sun.
Pet-Friendly Plant
Toxicity: non toxic
Generally considered non-toxic to people and common pets; flowers are often used as edible garnishes. Rare sensitivities possible in very sensitive animals.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place in full sun where it receives at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot regions provide light afternoon shade or a bright, protected spot to reduce stress and preserve flower color during heat waves.
Water
Water regularly but allow the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) of soil to dry between waterings. Use well-draining soil and avoid standing water; reduce frequency after peak bloom and during cool, wet weather.
Humidity
Cornflower prefers average to low humidity and good air circulation. Avoid crowded plantings and stagnant indoor air; use fans or space plants to reduce mildew risk in humid climates.
Temperature
Prefers cool to mild conditions: about 10–21°C (50–70°F). Tolerates down to ~5°C (41°F) and short periods up to ~30°C (86°F).
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Few or no blooms
Cause: Too much shade, excessive nitrogen fertilizer, or high temperatures.
Solution: Move to a sunnier spot, avoid high-nitrogen feeds, deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering.
Leggy, stretched growth
Cause: Insufficient light or overcrowding.
Solution: Provide full sun, thin seedlings to recommended spacing, pinch back young growth to promote bushiness.
Powdery mildew or leaf spots
Cause: High humidity, poor air circulation, or overhead watering.
Solution: Improve spacing and airflow, water at the base, remove infected foliage and use fungicide if needed.
Aphids or thrips
Cause: Warm, sheltered conditions and new tender growth.
Solution: Blast with water, introduce beneficial insects, or use insecticidal soap/pyrethrin as needed. Monitor regularly.
✂️How to Propagate Cornflower (bachelor's button)
Sow seed directly where plants will bloom in early spring or autumn in mild areas. Lightly cover seeds (1–3 mm) and keep soil consistently moist until germination (7–14 days). Thin seedlings to 20–30 cm apart. For staggered blooms sow every 2–3 weeks. Transplant seedlings carefully and harden off before moving outdoors.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Asteraceae
Native to: Native to temperate Europe, especially the Mediterranean and western parts of the continent.
Natural Habitat: Open fields, meadows and disturbed soils in temperate Europe; favors full sun, well-drained, often poorer soils and areas with cool springs and dry summers.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
In frosty climates annual plants die back; collect seeds and clear debris. In mild areas, leave seedheads for self-sowing and cut back in late winter before new growth.
Spring
Sow seeds outdoors as soon as soil can be worked. Keep soil moist for germination, thin to 20–30 cm, and apply a light balanced feed if soil is very poor.
Summer
Deadhead regularly to prolong bloom, water deeply but infrequently, and provide afternoon shade if extreme heat occurs. Monitor for pests and mildew.
Fall
Allow late flowers to set seed for next season, collect seed for storage, and remove spent plants after seed is ripe or before heavy rains to reduce disease.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
When should I sow cornflower seeds?
Sow in early spring after last frost, or in autumn in mild climates. Germination takes 7–14 days in cool soil.
How often should I water cornflowers?
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries; typically every 3–7 days depending on heat and soil drainage.
Can cornflowers be grown in containers?
Yes. Use a deep pot with good drainage, full sun, and a lean, well-draining potting mix. Water more often than in-ground plants.
Are cornflower blooms edible?
Yes. Petals are commonly used as edible garnishes and in teas; ensure no pesticides were used.
How do I prevent powdery mildew?
Provide good airflow, avoid overhead watering, space plants properly, and remove infected foliage promptly.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025