What Are Cornflower Petals?
Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), also called bachelor’s button or bluebottle, is an annual wildflower of the daisy family native to Europe. It once grew so commonly in grain fields that it was named after them, as corn is the old English word for grain. Its intense blue is so distinctive that it gave its name to a color, cornflower blue.
The flowers are harvested in summer and dried. We offer both the loose petals and whole buds, which keep their vivid blue color well when stored away from light. The petals have a mild, slightly sweet and grassy taste, so they are used mainly for their color.
Dried cornflower petals are famous as the blue flecks in Lady Grey and many Earl Grey blends. They also add color to herbal tea blends, and they are a popular edible decoration for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, chocolate bark, salads and cocktails.
Makers use cornflower petals to decorate soap, bath salts, bath bombs and candles, and in potpourri, confetti and pressed flower crafts. The cornflower is also a national flower of Germany and Estonia.
Our cornflower petals and buds contain only dried Centaurea cyanus flowers with nothing added. They are sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Cornflower Petals and Buds
- Tea blends: Add a pinch of petals to black, green or herbal tea blends for blue color.
- Cornflower tea: Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons in a cup (8 fl oz / 250 ml) of hot water for 5 minutes.
- Baking: Sprinkle petals over frosting, cakes, cookies or chocolate just before serving.
- Soap and bath: Press petals onto the top of soap or mix into bath salts and bath bombs.
Safety
Avoid if you are allergic to plants of the daisy family (Asteraceae). If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: How to use cornflower petals in tea: our guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cornflower petals edible?
Yes. Dried cornflower petals are commonly used as an edible decoration and in tea blends.
Do cornflower petals keep their color?
They keep their blue color well when stored airtight and away from light. In wet soap, the blue may fade or change.
Why are cornflowers in Earl Grey?
They add a beautiful blue color to the tea blend. Their taste is mild.
What is the difference between petals and buds?
Petals are loose, ideal for blending and decorating. Whole buds look striking in jars and arrangements.
How should I store cornflower petals?
Keep them in an airtight container away from light to protect the blue color.
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