Centaurea cyanus

The cornflower is a herbaceous annual plant from the daisy family (Asteraceae). Originally from southern and central Europe, cornflower is widely cultivated in North America as a garden plant. It used to be a common agricultural weed in corn and other grain fields.

This annual (or two-year) tall plant can grow up to 80 cm. Long-lasting blue, white or pink flowers atop wiry stems. Cornflower leaves are narrow, covered with hairs as soft as cotton and the edges are serrated.

Dried cornflower is a beautiful and edible flower known for its cobalt blue petals. Due to its amazing taste, similar to a clove, this unusual decoration is increasingly present in the culinary world.

Place a pinch of petals on top of white fish for a great finishing touch, or try using a few cornflower petals to garnish canapés, cakes, cheese platters or couscous salads.

These cobalt blue cornflower petals also add color and flavor when added to liquid – they are great in cocktails, teas or smoothies