Centaurea cyanus 'Red Boy' Cornflower

Centaurea cyanus - 'Red Boy' Cornflower

Pot Size:  Gallon

Centaurea cyanus are commonly known as "Bachelor’s Buttons".  The Cornflower name came about due to their growing as a weed in cornfields, historically. This plant has lance-shaped leaves and thin stems, and can grow to 3 feet. This variety has deep crimson blossoms that bloom all summer long.  As such, these beautiful old -fashioned flowers are super popular for cottage gardens - a reliable pop of color amidst its more fleeting bloom neighbors. Cornflowers can add depth to a perimeter garden, and also do well in containers- very versatile.   

Annual
Zones: 2-11
Size: Grows 24-36 inches in height, and 12 -18 inches in spread.     
Light: Cornflowers do best in full sun.
Soil: Cornflowers do best in well-drained soil
Water: Fairly high water requirement- prefers the sun, but needs to be watered often
Bloom: Deep crimson blooms throughout entire summer  
Uses: Adds depth to cottage gardens, garden perimeters, containers. Flowers are edible!

Photo S Cook