Centaurea macrocephala – Impressive large cut flower for field and cut bouquets

Centaurea macrocephala, also known as the large cornflower, is a spectacular cut flower with large, striking flower heads and a unique appearance. This variety combines vigorous growth with impressive blooms, making it ideal for cut-flower bouquets, field bouquets, and creative floral arrangements that make a real statement.

With its robust stems and striking flowers, Centaurea macrocephala is a favourite with both professional cut flower growers and hobby florists looking for a real eye-catcher.

Large flowers with a striking appearance

Centaurea macrocephala is distinguished by its large flower heads, often 8–10 cm in diameter, with an airy rosette shape and a soft yellow to golden yellow hue. The flowers have a botanical charm and an elegant, open structure that combines well with other summer flowers.

These properties make the flower ideal for:

• field and picking bouquets that need a striking accent

• bridal work and ceremonial flower creations

• botanical and modern flower arrangements

• creative decorations for events and interior

The bright yellow of the flower heads adds a warm, sunny accent, which contrasts beautifully with blue, pink or white cut flowers.

Strong, long cutting stems

Centaurea macrocephala develops straight, sturdy stems of 80–120 cm, depending on location and care. The stems are robust and suitable for transport, making the flower ideal for professional cut flower growers and wholesalers.

The branching growth habit produces multiple harvestable stems per plant, making the variety profitable for both commercial growers and hobby gardeners.

Long vase life and versatile applications

Centaurea macrocephala flowers have a vase life of 7–10 days, especially when harvested half-open. They retain their shape and color excellently, making them ideal for:

• picking bouquets and field bouquets

• bridal bouquets and wedding styling

• packages for hotels and events

• striking floral designs that make a statement

The combination of sturdy stems and large flower heads makes this variety versatile and visually impressive.

Excellent as a dried flower

Besides fresh use, Centaurea macrocephala is excellent for dried flowers. Harvesting the flowers half-open and drying them slowly preserves their color and structure. Dried Centaurea macrocephala is ideal for:

• picking bouquets and field bouquets

• sustainable interior decoration

• boho and prairie style arrangements

• long-lasting flower arrangements

The warm yellow accent remains striking and stylish even after drying.

Cultivation advice for optimal cut stems

Centaurea macrocephala grows best in full sun in well-drained, fertile soil.

Important cultivation points:

• Sowing: February–April under glass or directly outside from April

• Plant out: after the last frost

• Planting distance: 30–40 cm for strong stems and air circulation

• Soil: well-drained, light and nutritious

• Water: regular but moderate; no wet feet

• Nutrition: Light fertilization encourages large stems and flowers

• Support: recommended for long stems and large flower heads

• Harvest: when the flowers are half to almost fully open

Regular harvesting promotes new flowering and extends the harvest period.

Why choose Centaurea macrocephala?

• Large, showy flower heads (8–10 cm)

• Long, sturdy cutting stems (80–120 cm)

• Long vase life of 7–10 days

• Perfect for fresh and dried flower creations

• Uniform and robust growth

• Ideal for field bouquets, cut bouquets and bridal work

• Reliable and easy to grow