Bachelors Button (Cornflower)

If you are looking for an edible flower that is easy to grow, blooms prolifically in the summer, and requires little attention then Bachelors Button (Centaurea cyanus) is worth trying. Commonly know as Cornflower, Bachelors Button has no special soil requirements. In fact, the cornflower name was originated in Southern Europe where it was found growing in cornfields. It can handle just about any type of growing conditions other than total shade and damp wet areas. Bachelors Button comes in several colors ranging from pink to white to several shades of blue. The color blue is the most common. Actually, an edible blue dye can be extracted from the flowers and can be used in the coloring of sugars and other confections. The flowers are edible and can easily be used in salads or as a garnish. The young shoots also are edible. An infusion can be made from the flowers for the treatment of mouth ulcers and bleeding gums. A tea can be made to help aid digestion and the seeds can be used as a mild laxative.

The grey textured foliage of Bachelors Button makes a nice addition to the garden. This plant also attracts butterflies and bees which are necessary for pollination. Bachelors Button is considered an annual which means it lives for only a year. But the plant reseeds itself heavily so there can be a continuous supply of new seedlings each spring. It may be wise to thin out or remove some seedlings so that the plants will not take over the garden. The flowers are easily dried and are great for floral arrangements.

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