8 named cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Annual plant known for its striking blue flowers.
Often used as a cut flower and has a long blooming season.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds just beneath soil surface in early spring.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture during rooting.
- Ensure well-drained soil with full sun exposure for optimal growth.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 weeks.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for rejuvenation.
Pro Tip
Use seed-starting trays for early germination and transplant seedlings after two sets of true leaves.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growing season
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize late in the season to prevent weak growth
- Refrain from overcrowding to ensure good air circulation
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cornflower questions
What zones can Cornflower grow in?
Cornflower is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Cornflower deer resistant?
Yes — Cornflower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Cornflower bloom?
Cornflower typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cornflower need full sun?
Cornflower does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Cornflower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cornflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Centaurea to compare
Blue Cornflower
Centaurea cyanus 'Blue Diadem'
Amethyst in Snow Bachelor's Button
Centaurea cyanus 'Amethyst in Snow'
Cornflower Bachelor's Button
Centaurea cyanus 'Bachelor's Button'
Red Boy Cornflower
Centaurea cyanus 'Red Boy'
Amethyst Dream Cornflower
Centaurea cyanus 'Amethyst Dream'
Black Gem Cornflower
Centaurea cyanus 'Black Gem'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Cornflower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.