Flower That Looks Like Corn On The Cob
Have you ever seen a flower that looks like corn on the cob? If you haven't, then you are in for a treat. The flower that looks like corn on the cob is known as the Cornflower or Bachelor's Button. It is a beautiful wildflower that is native to Europe and Asia but has now spread to other parts of the world. The Cornflower has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other flowers. The flower head looks like a mini corn cob, with a series of small, tightly-packed flowers that are usually blue, pink or white in color.
What is a Cornflower?
The Cornflower is a member of the daisy family and is also known as Centaurea cyanus. It is an annual plant that grows up to 90 cm tall and has narrow leaves that are about 1-4 cm long. The flowers themselves are about 3 cm in diameter and are usually blue, pink, or white. The Cornflower has a long blooming period, usually from June to August, which makes it a popular choice for gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. It is also a great plant for pollinators, as it attracts bees, butterflies and other insects.
History and Symbolism
The Cornflower has a long and interesting history, particularly in Europe. It was traditionally grown as a medicinal herb and was used to treat ailments such as eye infections, rheumatism and digestive problems. In France, the Cornflower was a symbol of the Republican Party and was worn as a buttonhole during the French Revolution. It is also the national flower of Estonia and is found on the coat of arms of several towns and cities in Germany.
The Cornflower is also associated with a number of symbolic meanings. In some cultures, it is seen as a symbol of loyalty, love, and devotion, while in others it is associated with virility and fertility. In the Victorian era, giving a Cornflower to someone was seen as a way of expressing one's love and affection, particularly in cases where the love was secret or forbidden.
Growing Cornflowers
Cornflowers are relatively easy to grow and care for, which makes them a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and should be planted in full sun. Cornflowers are also drought-tolerant, which makes them a good choice for areas with hot, dry summers.
They can be grown from seed or from transplants, and should be sown in the spring or early summer. Once the plants are established, they should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Overwatering can cause the plants to become leggy and flop over. Deadheading the spent flowers will encourage the plants to produce more blooms, which will extend the blooming season.
Cornflowers in Art and Culture
The unique beauty of the Cornflower has inspired artists and writers for many years. It has been featured in many works of literature, including poems by William Wordsworth and John Keats. In the art world, the Cornflower has been the subject of many paintings, including those by Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet. The Cornflower has also been featured on postage stamps in several countries, including Germany and Estonia.
In Conclusion
The Cornflower, with its unique appearance and long history, is a truly remarkable flower. Whether you choose to grow it in your garden or simply admire it in the wild, the Cornflower is sure to bring joy and beauty to your life.