Family: Asteraceae Genus: Centaurea
Species: Centaurea cyanus L.
Common Name(s): cornflower, bachelor’s button, hurtsickle, thimbles, corn-pinks
.
Centaurea cyanus, commonly known as cornflower, is a beautiful and popular annual flowering plant that has been prized for its stunning blue petals for centuries. Native to Europe, this hardy plant has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world, making it an easily recognizable and beloved symbol of summer. Its delicate appearance and soft blue petals make it a popular choice for use in bouquets and floral arrangements. While cornflower is known for its blue petals, this popular plant can be found in other colors such as pink, purple, and white.53
Fables, Folklore, and Mythology
In ancient times, the blue petals of the cornflower were believed to have magical properties and were used in traditional medicines and rituals. In some cultures, the plant was believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to those who possessed it. It’s said that the knights of King Charlemagne wore the blue petals, making the petals a symbol of bravery and strength. During the First World War, the cornflower became a symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers, as it was often found growing on battlefields and in cemeteries. In addition, the colors of the flower closely resembled that of the uniforms of the French, Belgium, and German soldiers.54
Traditional Medicine
At one time, cornflower was used, among other things, to make eyewashes or compresses believed to soothe irritated or inflamed eyes. The mild astringent properties of cornflower petals were thought to help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Today, cornflower is primarily valued for its ornamental beauty rather than its medicinal properties.55
Ecology
Cornflower is an important food source for many species of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and moths. It also provides habitat for insects and animals, making it an important part of an ecosystem.