In 15th-century Greece, cornflowers became associated with fidelity, tenderness and reliability since they appeared in Renaissance paintings, decorating the garments of various figures and goddesses. Blue cornflower was an important national symbol of Prussia. The story goes that Queen Louise of Prussia, fleeing Berlin and hiding from the forces of Napoleon, hid her children in a field of blue cornflowers. When Wilhelm, one of her children, later became the king of Prussia and emperor of Germany, he proclaimed the cornflower the national emblem of the country. With it, this flower’s meaning also became strength and courage, resilience and freedom.

The plant’s bright blue flowers were a common sight in European cornfields during the summer months, and the name “cornflower” likely originated from this association. The name “centaurea” comes from the Greek word “kentauros”, which means “centaur”, as the plant was believed to have healing properties and was named after the mythical creature that was known for its ability to heal wounds.

With these tips, your Centaurea cyanus will thrive and produce beautiful blooms throughout the growing season. Centaurea cyanus Learn the best practices for wildflower planting with expert tips from the 'Seed Man' All About Cornflower: Origins and Uses Josie Le Blond (11 January 2019). "New far-right German party adopts former secret Nazi symbol". The Guardian. Echinacea can be paired with a variety of companion plants to create a beautiful and balanced garden. Here are some ideas for companion plants that pair well with Echinacea:

This once wild plant is native to Europe and was given its name due to rampant proliferation in cornfields. The seeds thrive in the same conditions as corn; open, sunny fields with moderately dry soil, yet over time, due to over-use of herbicides in cornfields throughout Europe and the US, Cornflowers no longer reseeded themselves naturally. Centaurea cyanus is a diploid flower (2n = 24). [12] The genetic diversity within populations is high, although there could be a future decline in diversity due to population fragmentation and intensive agriculture. [13] In general, Centaurea cyanus is a self-incompatible species. However, selfing still occurs occasionally, but results in inbreeding depression. [14] Cultivars [ edit ] Hanf, Martin (1943). "Keimung von Unkrauterun unter verschiedenen Bedingungen im Boden". Landwirtschaftliche Jahrbücher. 93 (2): 169–259. Centaurea cyanus requires full sun and neutral (pH 6.6–7.5) to mildly alkaline (pH 7.6–7.8), moist and well-drained soil. However, Centaurea cyanus is quite tolerant to drought once established. [23] Sowing [ edit ] If you are looking for an annual outdoor plant for your garden that is easy to grow and care for, Centaurea cyanus aka „Cornflower” is a great option.Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia): This perennial plant has tall, airy stems that complement the upright growth habit of Echinacea. Its silver foliage and blue-purple flowers provide a nice contrast to Echinacea’s colorful blooms.

Centaurea cyanus, commonly known as cornflower or bachelor’s button, draws attention with its attractive flowers. The plant produces vibrant blue, pink, white, or purple flowers that are approximately 1-2 inches in diameter. In naming the plant, the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus used the word centaur—the mythological half-man, half-horse. More specifically, the scientific name of the cornflower ( Centaurea cyanus) is linked to the centaur Chiron. The specific epithet, cyanus, means dark blue. Blooming Season: Echinaceas are herbaceous perennials with a fairly long blooming season extending from late spring to late summer and, for some, even until frost. If you want to save the seeds to plant again next year, allow the flower heads to dry on the plant until the seeds turn brown and begin to fall out of the head. Take off the entire flower head and put it into a paper bag. Allow the head to dry completely in the bag, then shake the bag to release the seeds. Keep the seeds in a dry and cool place until you’re ready to sow them.

What is Echinacea (Coneflower)?

Whiteside, Andrew G. (1993). Pan-Germanism: Anti-Semitism in Mass-Style Politics. Vol.3/2. de Gruyter. p.691. {{ cite book}}: |work= ignored ( help)