Cornflower

cyanus segetum

Also known as: ["Bachelor's Button","Common Cornflower"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Cyanus Category: Flowers

Overview

An annual flowering plant native to Europe, known for its vibrant blue flowers and use in ornamental gardens.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Cyanus
Botanical Name: Cyanus segetum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring and summer; partial shade during intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in peak summer; avoid direct sun during hottest hours.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.

Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in fall and winter; use a balanced formula for even growth.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of clumps.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to deliver water directly to the soil without disturbing the plant.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Cyanus segetum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cyanus segetum may result from inadequate water supply, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient transport.

Leaf spots on Cyanus segetum are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other plants.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Cyanus segetum is often caused by fungal pathogens or overwatering, which can lead to decay, structural weakness, and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may exhibit mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Cyanus segetum. The plant is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant to avoid ingestion.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Cyanus segetum. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant to prevent accidental ingestion.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Cyanus segetum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Wash hands after handling the plant.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cornflower toxic to pets?

A: No, Cornflower is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How often should Cornflower be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Cornflower attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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