Flowerheads typically display an urn shaped receptcle of fringed or spiny bracts from the mouth of which radiate large florets. montana: Cornflower, or Mountain Bluet. Long lived perennial up to 30" high, has striking blue flowers in the late spring. May form large clumps when conditions are suitable.
delbata: Persian Cornflower. Very leafy perennial has deeply cut foliage which is grey-green on the underside. Lilac pink fowerheads appear from late spring onwards. An erect plant to 3 feet high.
macrocephala: Globe Cornflower. Foliage resembles a large dandelion. In summer, stout leafy stems, up to 3 feet, tall carry bright yellow thistle like flowerheads 2" across.
Care and Maintenance:
Deadhead regularly to maintain long bloom period and to prevent the plant crowns from falling open (montana). The plants are less aggressive in heavier soils. Cornflowers do well in well drained soil in a sunny location.
