• Scientific Name: Centaurea cyanus

Description:
Blue cornflower, also known as bachelor’s button, is a strikingly beautiful wildflower known for its vibrant blue petals. Originally native to Europe, it has become naturalized in many parts of North America. Cornflowers are easy to grow and are often found in fields, gardens, and meadows, appreciated both for their ornamental value and their edible and medicinal uses.

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Cornflower petals are a deep, vivid blue color, often with feathery, serrated edges. Each flower head is composed of numerous, slender petals radiating out from a central disc, creating a delicate, star-like shape.
• Flavor: The petals have a mild, slightly sweet, and spicy taste, with a hint of clove or pepper.
• Growth Habitat: Cornflowers thrive in well-drained soil and sunny locations. They are annuals and often self-seed, growing back year after year in garden or meadow settings.

Common Uses:

1. Culinary Uses:
   Cornflower petals are edible and often used as a garnish to add color and visual appeal to dishes like salads, soups, desserts, and beverages. Their mild flavor complements a range of foods, and they are sometimes dried and added to tea blends to enhance the visual appeal and subtlety of flavor.
2. Tea and Herbal Infusions:
   Dried cornflower petals are commonly included in herbal tea blends, such as Earl Grey and Lady Grey teas. The petals add a mild flavor and create a visually appealing infusion.
3. Skincare and Cosmetics:
   Cornflower petals contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them a popular ingredient in natural skincare. They are used in toners, creams, and eye care products for their soothing qualities, especially for sensitive or puffy skin around the eyes.
4. Natural Dye:
   The blue pigment of cornflower petals is used as a natural dye in crafts and homemade beauty products. Although the color does not always hold strong in natural dyeing, it can add subtle blue tones to various materials.
5. Traditional Medicine:
   Cornflower has been used in traditional herbal medicine, primarily as a mild anti-inflammatory and eye soother. Infusions of cornflower are sometimes used as an eyewash or a compress to reduce puffiness and redness around the eyes.
6. Symbolism and Ornamental Use:
   Cornflowers are often associated with friendship, hope, and remembrance, and their striking color makes them popular in flower arrangements, wreaths, and ornamental gardens.

Forms and Consumption:
Cornflower petals are typically used fresh or dried. Fresh petals can be added directly to dishes or steeped in infusions, while dried petals are often added to teas, potpourri, or skincare preparations. They are considered safe for consumption and use in most skincare products, although it is always advisable to use organically grown petals for edible and cosmetic purposes.