The Essential Guide To The Cornflower
Botanical Name: Centaurea cyanus
Common Name: Cornflower
General Knowledge: The cornflower, originally native to Europe, has become popular across the world for its vivid blue petals and its ability to adapt to various climates. Traditionally used in floral arrangements and wildflower gardens, its striking colour and delicate form add a touch of elegance and charm. A fun fact about cornflowers is that they have been historically used in herbal remedies, with some cultures believing in their potential to treat ailments ranging from eye problems to digestive issues.
Colour Range: Cornflower comes in blue, purple, and yellow colours. Although white, red, and rose-pink cultivars are available for gardeners, the double blue variant is most commonly available for florists.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Cornflowers are available from late spring to mid-summer in Australia, roughly from August to December.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Given their seasonal availability, Cornflowers are popular for spring and summer weddings and events in Australia. They can add a pop of colour and a touch of whimsy to bouquets, centrepieces, and other floral arrangements.
Commercial Growth in Australia: Cornflowers are commercially grown in various parts of Australia.
Importation to Australia: While cornflowers are grown in Australia, certain varieties or large quantities for specific events may be imported.
Buying Tips: Look for Cornflowers that are half to fully open but have not yet produced visible pollen. Ensure the blooms are vibrant and show no signs of wilting or damage.
Design Tips and Advice: Cornflowers are considered transitional flowers in floristry, meaning they help to bridge the gap and create a seamless flow between different elements in an arrangement. They work well with other spring and summer blooms and are suited for wedding posies and cottage-garden-style bunches due to their delicate and whimsical appearance.
Flower Maturity: Choose blooms that are just starting to open for the longest vase life.
Expected Vase Life: Cornflowers generally have a short vase life of 5–8 days.
Typical Stem Length: The stems of Cornflowers typically range from 40–50 cm.
Typical Bunch Size: The number of stems per bunch can vary.
Floral Preservatives: Use of a floral preservative is recommended to extend the vase life of Cornflowers.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Cornflowers are sensitive to ethylene, so they should be kept away from sources of ethylene such as ripening fruit.
Temperature Requirements: Maintain cool storage conditions at 2–4 °C.
Avoiding Potential Problems: Ensure that Cornflowers are well always hydrated. Due to their short vase life, it is advisable to sell them as soon as possible.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Keep cornflowers in a cool room or refrigerated space before arranging or displaying them.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Use clean, fresh water and a standard floral preservative.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Keep cornflowers away from sources of ethylene, such as ripening fruit, to prevent premature wilting.