Amidst a lush sun dappled summer meadow in full bloom chances are good, standing out from among the flowers, your eye may be drawn towards the bold blue cornflower.

It’s color, a striking shade of blue, found its way into the paintings of Vermeer and into the 1958 creation of the Cornflower Crayola crayon. The CorningWare company chose to brand its products with a picture of the stately blue cornflower. The most valuable type of sapphire is known as Cornflower blue, an exquisite example of which would be the sapphire found on the engagement ring of Princess Diana, now being worn by Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge.

The cornflower (centaurea cyanus) had its humble origin growing among crops of corn and grains such as wheat, barley, rye and oats in the British Isles dating back to the Iron Age. Transported across the ocean, the seedlings came to populate fields and meadows across the US and Canada. This annual small to medium sized flower blooms from June through August. Its starlike center is surrounded by layers of frilly petals. The petals are edible and can be added to salads or used as a cocktail garnish or made into herbal tea.

Cornflowers hold significant importance throughout Europe, acting as the national flower of Estonia, where it symbolizes daily bread. It is a national symbol of Germany and lends political symbolism within the governments of Sweden and Finland. The French wear cornflowers to signify remembrance.

Cornflower blue adds bright and bold color to wedding decorations. Whether they are meant to offer a rustic country garden feel or a sophisticated royal nod, the cornflower can be incorporated into bouquets, hair pieces, boutonnieres, centerpieces and cake decorations with aplomb. Available during the summer months, a Philadelphia florist can help you create the floral pieces of your dreams.

In bouquets, one might arrange cornflowers alongside asters, snapdragons or daisies for a country casual event. A more formal event might call for an arrangement which includes roses, peonies, or tulips. In either case, the bouquets will certainly be focal points.

Symbolically, legend has it that when a bachelor wore one to signify his love, if the cornflower didn’t fade, his love would be returned. How romantic a gesture it would be for the bride to approach her groom carrying a bouquet containing cornflowers, symbolically mirroring his love and affection.

For an earthy yet sophisticated statement, consider including the cornflower into your next celebration.

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