Pink Cornflower - Care Sheet
Overview
The Pink Cornflower, a charming cultivar of the classic Cornflower, is a cheerful annual known for its soft pink blooms and easygoing nature. Botanically called Centaurea cyanus, it’s also widely known as Bachelor’s Button. Originally from Europe, this plant is now grown in gardens around the world for its vibrant color and pollinator appeal. Pink Cornflower is a great choice for beginner gardeners, thriving in sunny spots with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for borders, cottage gardens, or as a cut flower, and its blooms attract butterflies and other beneficial insects.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Centaurea cyanus |
|---|---|
| Common name | Pink Cornflower, Bachelor’s Button |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Pet‑safe? | Unknown (generally considered low risk, but caution advised for pets) |
| Light | Full sun to light shade |
| Water | Medium moisture, well-drained soil |
| Humidity | Low to moderate |
| Temperature | 10–24°C / 50–75°F |
| Soil | Well-drained, average to poor soil |
| Fertilizer | Low to none; occasional balanced feed if needed |
| Repotting | Not required (annual plant) |
| Propagation | Seed sowing |
Light
Pink Cornflower thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate light shade, but too much shade may cause weak stems and fewer flowers. For best results, choose a sunny garden bed or container spot.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Pink Cornflower is drought-tolerant once established but prefers regular watering during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This plant adapts well to average outdoor humidity levels. It does not require high humidity and can tolerate dry conditions, making it suitable for most climates.
Temperature
Pink Cornflower grows best in cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 10–24°C / 50–75°F. It’s a cool-season annual, so it performs well in spring and early summer. It can tolerate light frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
Soil & Potting
Use well-drained soil, even if it’s poor in nutrients. Pink Cornflower is adaptable and doesn’t need rich soil. For containers, use a standard potting mix with good drainage. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Feeding
Fertilizer is rarely needed. If growth seems slow, a light application of balanced liquid fertilizer once during the growing season is sufficient. Over-fertilizing can lead to leggy plants with fewer flowers.
Repotting
Repotting is not necessary, as Pink Cornflower is an annual and completes its life cycle in one growing season. If grown in containers, simply replant fresh seeds each year.
Propagation
Propagation is by seed. Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring or fall, or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Seeds germinate quickly, usually within 7–14 days. Thin seedlings to about 15–30 cm / 6–12 inches apart for healthy growth.
Common Problems
Leggy or Floppy Stems
Too much shade or overcrowding can cause weak stems. Ensure full sun and proper spacing. Taller varieties may need staking or support from neighboring plants.
Root Rot
Overwatering or poor drainage leads to root rot. Use well-drained soil and avoid letting plants sit in water.
Few Flowers
Insufficient sunlight or too much fertilizer can reduce blooming. Provide full sun and avoid heavy feeding.
Pests
Aphids or spider mites may occasionally appear. Wash off with water or use insecticidal soap if needed.
Self-Seeding
Pink Cornflower can reseed and spread easily. Deadhead spent flowers if you want to control its spread, or allow it to naturalize for a wildflower effect.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Pink Cornflower is generally considered low risk for pets, but there is limited specific data on its toxicity. As with many ornamental plants, it’s best to keep curious pets from eating large amounts. If you have concerns, consult a veterinarian.
Seasonal Care
Plant seeds in early spring or fall for best results. Water regularly during dry periods and deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers. In colder climates, the plant will die back after frost. In mild climates, it may self-seed and return the following year.
Quick Tips
- Choose a sunny spot for the brightest blooms.
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
- Allow some flowers to set seed if you want natural reseeding.
- Pinch back young plants for bushier growth.
- Use in cut flower arrangements for a pop of color.
- Attracts butterflies and pollinators to your garden.