Cornflower

Centaurea cyanus L.

The cornflower, or Centaurea cyanus L. , is more than just a beautiful blue flower. It is a flower with history, symbolism, ecological value and surprising applications.

In this blog we take you through the rich history of the cornflower, how and where it grows, how to grow it at home in five easy steps, what's in the flower and what it does for our bodies.

History of cornflower

The cornflower has been known in Europe for centuries, especially in fields between the grain. Hence the name. In the past it was considered a weed, but at the same time it was loved for its bright color and symbolism. In German romanticism in the 19th century the flower was a symbol of hope, loyalty and love. Cornflowers were also worn by young men as a token of love. In France it was a symbol of remembrance after the First World War, comparable to the poppy in Great Britain.

Today, the cornflower is cherished as an ornamental plant, biodiversity promoter and as an ingredient in tea and care products.

How & where does the cornflower grow?

The cornflower is native to Europe and Western Asia. Originally it was a wild field flower that was common among cereals such as wheat and barley. Due to intensive agriculture and the use of herbicides the wild cornflower has become rarer in many areas.

The plant prefers open, sunny areas with well-drained soil. Cornflowers do well in nutrient-poor soil and are therefore ideal for a natural garden or a flower meadow.

How to grow cornflower at home?

Seeds or plants, buy or exchange

You can often get cuttings or seeds at garden centres.

In some villages and towns there are plant swap events or small stands at markets, who knows you can share or swap your creations with others!

Choose the right location

Cornflowers love the sun. So choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. They are suitable for borders, fields or flower boxes.

Preparation

The plant has few demands on the soil, as long as it is not too wet. Provide a loose, slightly nutritious soil. Digging and possibly mixing in some sand helps with drainage.

Maintenance

Do not water too often. Only during drought or when the plant is still young.

If you have sown multiple seeds, thin the plants out so they have room to grow. Remove faded flowers to enjoy flowering longer and to encourage reseeding.

Harvesting and storing

Pick flowers on a dry day, just when they are fully open.

Hang them upside down in a dark, airy place. Store the dried petals in an airtight jar.

Important components of cornflower

The cornflower contains, among other things:

  • Anthocyanins: the pigments that give the flower its deep blue colour, with antioxidant action.
  • Bitter substances: promote digestion.
  • Flavonoids: plant substances that have an anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Traces of essential oil: these have a light calming effect and are soothing to the skin.

Interaction of cornflower with the human body

Although the effects are mild, cornflower is considered a safe and friendly plant for everyday use. Cornflower is traditionally used for:

  • Eye care: in eyewash or compresses for tired or inflamed eyes.
  • Skin care: as a soothing ingredient in creams and lotions.
  • Digestion: the tea made from the flower petals has a mild stimulating effect on the stomach and liver.
  • Peace and relaxation: a tea with cornflower, chamomile and lavender has a mildly relaxing effect.

Sources :

  • "Wild Flowers of Europe," Wolfgang Lippert, 2003.
  • "The Complete Guide to Edible Wild Plants," Department of the Army, 2009.
  • https://www.plantencentrum.be/ (consultation March 2025).

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.