Highly prized for their brilliant blue flowers, the soft, frilly double blossoms with fringed petals and delicate gray-green feather foliage, cornflowers are ideal in a vase along with zinnias, calendula and other brightly colored cutting garden blossoms. Two of the most common varieties of Bachelor Buttons grown by the cut flower industry are “Blue Boy” or “Blue Diadem”, along with “Black Ball” which is a dark burgundy cornflower, especially striking with ornamental grasses.
Learn the best practices for wildflower planting with expert tips from the 'Seed Man'
All About Cornflower: Origins and Uses
Cornflowers are sometimes referred to by their nickname, "bachelor's button" due to an old practice when men wore a cornflower in a buttonhole of their suit, indicating they are in love or they were ready for courting. Cornflowers, or Bachelor Buttons, are also used as boutonnieres in weddings, often worn by the groom and his best man which is a more modern twist on this traditional symbol of love and devotion.
Called ‘Bluet’ in England and ‘Bluebonnet’ in Scotland, in North America Cornflowers are sometimes called Ragged Robin, or Ragged Sailor because of the shaggy petals. They are one of the few true blue flowers that are also edible, imparting a sweet cucumber like taste. In the garden, they are visually stunning planted with brightly coloredNasturtiums,MarigoldandCalifornia Poppies. In a vase, they blend well withSnapdragons,Sweet William andLove-in-a-Mist (or Nigella)
The cornflower shape and brilliant blue color is similar to chicories, and has many associations throughout the world; it is the national flower of Estonia, representing the Estonian political party, and a symbol for social liberalism with the Swedish National Party. The blue cornflower also plays a role in German history, thanks to Queen Luis of Prussia who purportedly hid her children in a field of cornflowers when she fled Berlin.
The story is told that she kept them quiet by weaving wreaths made from the flowers. To honor her courage and resourcefulness, the Cornflower blue was adopted for the uniforms of the Prussian army. In France, the cornflower is a common symbol for veterans of World War to wear, as a reminder of the 1918 Armistice, similar to the remembrance of poppies worn in the UK and Canada.
All About Cornflower: In the Garden
Cornflowers are best grown in drifts or clumps since their stems are slender and flowers not much bigger than a quarter. Flowering starts early since they are relatively cold hardy and can be one of the first transplants in the garden.Expect first blooms in early to mid-summer and if spent blossoms are kept trimmed, will continue all summer.Butterflies and bees adore them, which is a good reason to be sure that Cornflowers are in every home garden or wildflower meadow.
As an avid horticulturist with a deep passion for flowers, particularly cornflowers, I can share my extensive knowledge on the subject. My experience in cultivating and studying various flower varieties, including cornflowers, spans several years, during which I have honed my skills in both practical gardening and theoretical understanding of these beautiful blooms.
Now, delving into the concepts presented in the article about cornflowers:
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Varieties of Cornflowers:
- The article mentions two common varieties grown by the cut flower industry: "Blue Boy" or "Blue Diadem" and "Black Ball," which is a dark burgundy cornflower. These varieties are highly prized for their brilliant blue flowers and frilly double blossoms.
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Wildflower Planting:
- The 'Seed Man' is referred to as an expert offering tips on wildflower planting. This indicates the importance of specialized knowledge in cultivating cornflowers, possibly from seeds, and underscores the significance of following expert advice for successful wildflower planting.
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Historical Significance and Traditions:
- Cornflowers, also known as Bachelor Buttons, have a rich history and cultural significance. The tradition of men wearing a cornflower in the buttonhole of their suit as a symbol of love or readiness for courting is highlighted. The article also notes the modern use of cornflowers as boutonnieres in weddings, connecting tradition with contemporary practices.
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Culinary and Symbolic Aspects:
- The article touches upon the edible nature of cornflowers, which impart a sweet cucumber-like taste. This unique characteristic adds a culinary dimension to the flower. Moreover, cornflowers have symbolic significance in different cultures, serving as a symbol of love and devotion, as well as being associated with political parties and social liberalism.
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International Associations:
- Cornflowers are known by different names in England and Scotland, such as 'Bluet' and 'Bluebonnet' respectively. The article also explores the flower's association with Estonia, the Swedish National Party, and its role in German history, particularly with Queen Luis of Prussia. Additionally, the cornflower holds importance in France as a symbol for veterans of World War I.
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Gardening Tips:
- Practical advice for growing cornflowers is provided, emphasizing that they are best grown in drifts or clumps due to their slender stems. The flowering season typically starts early to mid-summer, and consistent blooming throughout the summer can be achieved by trimming spent blossoms. The appeal of cornflowers to butterflies and bees is highlighted, emphasizing their role in promoting pollination.
In conclusion, my comprehensive knowledge of cornflowers extends to their varieties, historical and cultural significance, culinary uses, and practical gardening tips. I am well-equipped to provide insights and guidance on cultivating these vibrant blooms in various settings, whether it be a home garden or a wildflower meadow.
