The annual blue cornflower, Centaurea cyanus, is a slender plant bearing pretty flowers in rich shades of blue. It's commonly used in pictorial and annual meadow schemes, and makes an excellent cut flower. Cultivars of the species may have red, pink, and white flowers.
Centaurea cyanus 'Black Ball' bears unusual chocolate-coloured flowers on thin wiry stems. It's extremely attractive to bees.
For best results, grow Centaurea cyanus 'Black Ball' in moist but well-drained soil, in full sun. The wiry plants may need support in exposed situations. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering in summer, but leave seeds to develop towards autumn, as these will provide food for birds.
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Centaurea ‘Black ball’ and wildlife
Centaurea ‘Black ball’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and has seeds for birds.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Centaurea ‘Black ball’ poisonous?
Centaurea ‘Black ball’ has no toxic effects reported.
