$6.00
An ANNUAL growing to 1m with grey-green branched stems and 1-4cm lanceolate leaves. Flowerheads are commonly in an intense blue, but with white, pink, purple and even dark, almost black varieties existing. Flowers are known to attract bees and other pollinating insects. Prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor, alkaline soils. Full sun position is best and tolerates some degree of drought.
Shoots and flowers are edible and it has a long history of use as a medicine, although rarely used today.
The young shoots are edible, as are the flowers, which can be used in salads, or to decorate cakes and as a garnish.
Cornflower has a long history of herbal use, though it is seldom employed nowadays. Used for tired eyes, dropsy, constipation, or as a mouthwash for ulcers and bleeding gums, to aid digestion and support the immune system. It is a dye plant, can be used in pot-pourri and for ink.
| Size | |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Cornflower, Bachelor's Button, Bluebottle, B outonniere Flower, Hurtsickle, Cyani Flower |
| Latin Name | (Centauria cyanus) |
