Chrysanthemum coronarium
Chrysanthemum coronarium
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Pl. A8C8 — Chrysanthemum coronarium
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IOverview
Overview
Chrysanthemum coronarium, commonly known as cornflower or corn marigold, belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to regions spanning from North Africa to Central Asia. This annual plant can grow up to 1.2 meters in height and thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7.5–8. It is widely found across Algeria, Baleares, Corse, Cyprus, East Aegean Islands, Egypt, France, Greece, and other Mediterranean countries. Known for its edible parts—flowers, leaves, and shoots—it has been cultivated for culinary purposes. One distinctive feature of this plant is its light energy requirement, making it adaptable to various growing conditions.
Quick answers
What is Chrysanthemum coronarium?
Chrysanthemum coronarium, commonly known as cornflower or corn marigold, belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to regions spanning from North Africa to Central Asia. This annual plant can grow up to 1.2 meters in height and thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chrysanthemum coronarium thrives in light to moderately moist soil that is well-draining but can tolerate heavier clay soils. It prefers a slightly alkaline pH between 7.5 and 8. The plant requires full sun to partial shade and grows up to 1.2 meters tall. For cultivation, sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Chrysanthemum coronarium is hardy in temperate regions but may require protection in colder areas. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, and shoots throughout the growing season. SKIP
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Chrysanthemum coronarium for the first time
8steps
Start with Chrysanthemum coronarium as a simple, rewarding project for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, small pots if starting indoors, garden soil, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors about 6 weeks before planting outdoors.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH of 7.5–8. Ensure containers are at least 12 inches wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots, then transplant outdoors after danger of frost passes. Alternatively, plant seedlings directly into the garden.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly every 4–6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Harvest flowers when they are fully open for decorative purposes.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, and using incorrect soil pH.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The chrysanthemum coronarium is eaten for its leaves, shoots, and flowers. Typically, the leaves are used fresh in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The flowers can be added to salads or used in teas. All parts of the plant are consumed raw or lightly cooked.
Other uses:Companion
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe6 regions
native (6)CyprusFranceGreeceItalyPortugalSpain
Asia7 regions
native (7)IranIraqPalestineSaudi ArabiaTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Africa5 regions
native (5)AlgeriaEgyptLibyaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:Sinai, Yugoslavia, Gulf States, East Aegean Is., Kriti, Tadzhikistan, Lebanon-Syria, Turkey-in-Europe
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
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