Persian Cornflower Centaurea dealbata 'Steenbergii'
ABOUT
Centaurea dealbata 'Steenbergii', commonly known as Persian Cornflower or Knapweed, is an ornamental plant known for its unique and striking appearance. The foliage of this cultivar is grey-green in color, finely dissected, and presents a fern-like appearance that forms an attractive mound. The leaves may sometimes take on a whitish cast, adding to the textured look of the plant's base. The flowers are particularly notable for their fluffy, thistle-like form. They display a delicate, soft shade of pink that can range from pastel to a more saturated hue. These blooms are composed of a central disc of tightly clustered florets that may appear slightly darker or lighter than the ray florets that radiate around them. The ray florets resemble narrow petals and surround the central disc, giving the flower a ruffled, frilly appearance that is visually appealing. These flowers are typically borne on branched stems that rise above the foliage, creating an airy and whimsical display as if the blooms are dancing atop the leaves. The contrast between the soft pink flowers and the grey-green leaves is particularly striking and offers a charming display in any garden setting. In addition, Persian Cornflower has a bloom season that usually falls in the warmer months, attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies with its vibrant show. The overall impression of this plant is one of delicate beauty, with textures and colors that contribute to a cottage garden aesthetic or serve as a lovely accent in borders or mixed flower beds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Persian Cornflower, Whitewash Cornflower
Common names
Centaurea dealbata.
ToxicityTo humans
The Persian Cornflower is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. However, consuming any part of the plant is not recommended as it is not considered edible and could potentially cause stomach upset or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
To pets
The Persian Cornflower is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, it's still advisable to prevent pets from ingesting this plant as it could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in significant amounts.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet 6 inches (76 centimeters)
Spread
2 feet (61 centimeters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Centaurea dealbata 'Steenbergii', commonly known as Persian Cornflower, attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the Persian Cornflower is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens.
- Ornamental Value: With its showy, feathery pink flowers, it adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care beyond the initial establishment period, which makes it a good option for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Soil Adaptability: It can thrive in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-drained.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is generally resistant to deer, making it an attractive choice for areas with a large deer population.
- Long Blooming Season: It has a lengthy blooming period from early to mid-summer, providing extended visual interest.
- Easy Propagation: The plant can be easily propagated through division, making it simple to spread and share with fellow gardeners.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafts: The dried flowers of the Persian Cornflower can be used in flower arrangements and craft projects for their unique texture and color.
- Dye: The petals may be used as a natural dye source for fabrics or art projects, providing shades of pink or light purple.
- Garden structure: Their sturdy stems can provide support for weaker, neighboring plants or serve as a natural trellis for climbing vines.
- Baking decoration: Edible flowers, such as those from the Persian Cornflower, can adorn cakes and desserts for an elegant touch.
- Educational tool: This plant can be used in horticultural education to teach plant identification and gardening skills.
- Photography subject: The Persian Cornflower's distinctive look can provide an attractive subject for nature and macro photography.
- Biodiversity enhancement: Planting it can attract beneficial insects, thus enhancing garden biodiversity.
- Frost indicator: The plant's response to cold temperatures can serve as a natural indicator of the first frost dates in a region.
- Soil erosion control: Their root system can help stabilize sloped garden areas and reduce soil erosion.
- Companion planting: They can be used in companion planting to deter certain pests away from more vulnerable crops or plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Persian Cornflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Persian Cornflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Devotion: Often, members of the Centaurea genus, which includes the commonly known Persian Cornflower or Centaurea dealbata 'Steenbergii', are associated with feelings of love and devotion. This may stem from their attractive and captivating blossoms which can be seen to represent the allure and commitment present in loving relationships.
- Protection: In folklore, some species of Centaurea were thought to possess protective qualities. Wearing a cornflower or including it in charms and bouquets was believed to safeguard individuals from harm. Hence, the Persian Cornflower could also symbolize a wish for protection or safety.
- Elegance and Refinement: With its elegant form and refined presence in gardens, the Persian Cornflower symbolizes sophistication. Its delicate and ornate petals can represent a person's grace and poised character.
- Overcoming Challenges: As a hardy plant that can thrive in challenging conditions, the Persian Cornflower might symbolize resilience and the ability to overcome difficulties. It could be a message of encouragement to someone facing hard times.
WaterThe Persian Cornflower needs to be watered regularly, especially during extended periods of dry weather. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Depending on the climate and weather conditions, watering may be needed once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time. During hot summer months, the frequency may increase, whereas, in cooler weather or when it has rained, you can reduce the frequency.
LightThe Persian Cornflower thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would be an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can also grow well in a location with dappled sunlight throughout the day, which would protect it from the intense afternoon heat.
TemperatureThe Persian Cornflower is comfortable in a range of temperature conditions, but it does best when temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. This plant is hardy and can survive temperatures as low as 20°F for short periods, but prolonged exposure to such cold can be detrimental. Maximum temperatures should not exceed 85°F for optimal growth and blooming.
PruningThe Persian Cornflower benefits from pruning to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote further blooming. This should be done after the main flowering period, typically in late summer or early fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPersian cornflower thrives in well-drained soil enriched with compost, with optimal pH between 6.0 to 7.5 ensuring vigorous growth and flowering.
RepottingPersian cornflower should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingPersian cornflower prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable to different atmospheric moisture conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good air circulation for Persian cornflower indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with good drainage for outdoor Persian cornflower.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleCentaurea dealbata 'Steenbergii', commonly known as Steenberg's Knapweed, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring when the soil temperature warms up. Following germination, the seedling grows into a rosette of leaves close to the ground, which allows the plant to establish a strong root system. As the plant matures, it develops upright stems and finely divided foliage, typically within the first growing season. By the second year, the Steenberg's Knapweed will start producing its distinctive pink to purple thistle-like flowers atop the stems during the summer months. After flowering, the plant sets seeds that are dispersed by wind, allowing for new plants to grow in the surrounding area. It is a perennial species, therefore, after the flowering season, above-ground parts may die back, but the plant will regrow from its rootstock the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Centaurea dealbata 'Steenbergii', commonly known as Persian Cornflower or Whitewash Cornflower, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This method is typically done in the spring or early autumn. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an existing plant and gently separate the root clump into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots and shoots. Replant these divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 61 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. Water the new divisions well after planting to help establish them. This clonal method ensures that the offspring will retain the parent plant's characteristics, providing a reliable way to expand your garden with more of these attractive perennials.
