The author of the text is MSc. Agata Woźnicka
Centaurea macrocephala large-headed cornflower was introduced to cultivation at the beginning of the 19th century. His homeland is the Caucasus. It creates large clumps that grow up to 120 centimeters high and 90 centimeters wide. It grows strongly. It has thick, stiff and erect stems with a hollow interior.Lanceolate leaves with a slightly serrated edge taper into a petiole.
Stem leaves are narrower, upper sessile, rough. Sumptuous, thistle-like inflorescences appear in July and August at the ends of the shoots. The outer cover of the basket is made of shiny silver-brown parchment scales.Inflorescences can reach up to 10 centimeters in diameter.
Reproduction
Plants are easiest to get from seeds. They can be bought or harvested in the fall.Sowing is carried out from February to June in a seedbed or under covers.Germination can be irregular and requires some time (about 2-3 weeks), but it does not cause problems. Seeds from their own harvest require a cool period.After sowing in November and December, place the boxes or pots outside.
Only after freezing, the seedlings can be moved to a warm (15 ° C) and bright room. If they are left outside all winter, they will germinate in April-May.The grown seedlings should be quilted one at a time into separate containers.Young plants require a lot of light. After the last frosts have passed, they can be taken outside.
Application
Large-headed cornflower looks great solo and in a group on perennial beds, at walls and on rocky slopes.Forms flowering meadows with selected species. In large gardens and parks, it can be planted on larger areas.Looks nice in the company of clematis, asters, other cornflowers, ash-leaf dyptam, sedum, eastern poppy, spiky lilac, concentrated bellflower, spotted euphoria, larkspur, fiery flame, flecks and shades.
Although it is recommended to top the plants after flowering, the left seed heads will survive to the next year and will decorate the garden throughout the winter. Cut in late summer and dried, they will be a strong accent in a winter bouquet.Large-headed cornflower is also recommended for cut flower cultivation.Its inflorescences stay fresh for a long time in a vase.
Job title
Large-headed cornflower is not a demanding plant. It tolerates periodic drought very well. It is durable and completely winter-hardy.Feels best in full sun in well-drained and fertile soil.Also grows
on alkaline soils. It can be grown near shrubs and trees. Its strong root system allows it to compete with large plants.
