Photo: Subhrajyoti07 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Cornflower
Cornflower is the intense, true-blue button of the summer meadow, a wild grain-field annual florists prize for a shade of blue few flowers can match. Its slender wiry stems and fringed, thistle-like heads bring an airy, informal sparkle to hand-tied bouquets and buttonholes. Though the classic blue is the signature, it also comes in pink, white and deep plum. Best used fresh and loosely, it is a cottage-garden staple for rustic and boho weddings.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Europe (temperate and Mediterranean grain fields) |
| Peak season | June, July |
| Availability | May, June, July, August, September |
| Stem length | 30–70 cm |
| Vase life | 5–7 days |
| Colors | blue, purple, pink, white |
| Price tier | budget |
Cut stems at an angle and strip lower foliage that would sit below the waterline. Give a deep drink of cool water with flower food for a few hours before designing, as the thin stems dehydrate quickly. Keep cool and out of direct sun; the true-blue pigment fades faster in warmth.
- •Recut stems on a slant
- •Strip submerged leaves
- •Use clean water with flower food
- •Refresh water every two days
- •Keep away from heat and direct sun
- •Handle the brittle stems gently
Bouquet Builder — by Lacy BirdDesign the bouquet. See it as a photo.
Frequently asked questions
When is Cornflower in season?
Cornflower peaks in June, July, and florists can usually source it May, June, July, August, September. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Cornflower last in a vase?
Expect 5–7 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Cornflower?
Good substitutes for Cornflower include Scabiosa, Nigella, Aster, Delphinium. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Cornflower symbolise?
Cornflower is associated with hope, devotion, delicacy, remembrance.
How do you care for cut Cornflower?
Recut stems on a slant
