Cornflower
Centaurea cyanus
An easy to grow hardy annual. Cornflowers are beautiful, edible and brilliant pollinator plants
Sow In spring directly into the ground where it is to grow or in pots to plant out as sturdy young plants. Cornflowers can also be grown from an autumn sowing given some protection through winter.
Grow A couple of repeat sowings through the summer will provide a continuous supply. Keep plants well-watered in dry weather and either pick the flowers for homegrown bouquets or deadhead regularly to keep the blooms coming.
Uses The clear blue of the cornflower makes a beautiful homegrown bouquet with the addition of just a few stems of foliage – applemint or green fennel are both good. Blue, pink and deep purple cornflowers mix well with other cut flowers and are a cottage garden favourite. Alternatively add to mixed bunches, and posies of sweet peas. The petals can be scattered over salads or used to decorate cakes. Keep picking and deadheading to encourage more flowers.