Oranjeband® Centaurea cyanus Black Ball

Centaurea cyanus Black Ball (Centaurea cyanus)

The True Blue Flower

Cornflowers are among the few flowers with true blue color – not purple-blue or violet-blue, but genuine blue. Once a common sight in cornfields across Europe, they have become rarer in the wild due to modern agriculture. Grow them in your garden to enjoy this increasingly rare beauty.

Edible Beauty

Cornflower petals are edible with a mild, slightly sweet, slightly spicy flavor. They are stunning in:

Salads: The blue color is dramatic against green leaves.

Drinks: Float in cocktails or freeze in ice cubes.

Cakes: Scatter over frosting for natural decoration.

Tea blends: Common addition to herbal tea blends for color.

Cultural Significance

In France, the cornflower (bleuet) is the symbol of remembrance, equivalent to the poppy in Britain. It represents the blue uniforms of French soldiers. The blue cornflower was also a symbol of hope in 19th century Germany.

Growing Cornflowers

Sow directly where they will grow – cornflowers dislike transplanting. They thrive in poor soil and actually produce more flowers with less fertilizer. Self-sow readily for return year after year. Excellent cut flowers – cut when buds are just opening.

Growing Centaurea cyanus Black Ball