Common corn cockle (Agrostemma githago) has a flower like a geranium, but it is a wild plant common in the United Kingdom. What is corn cockle? Agrostemma corn cockle is a weed found in grain crops but it also produces a lovely flower and, if properly managed, can make a delightful addition to a flower garden. Corn cockle flowers are annuals but reseed readily, adding lovely lavender tones to a wildflower garden.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Agrostemma githago, the common corn-cockle (also written “corncockle”), is a herbaceous annual flowering plant in the pink and carnation family Caryophyllaceae.
It grows with a stem to 100 cm (39 in) long with lanceolate leaves. The flowers are up to 5 cm (2.0 in) in diameter, usually single at the ends of the stem. The sepals have five narrow teeth much longer than the petals. It has ten stamens. It has slender pink flowers. It is an erect plant covered with fine hairs. Its few branches are each tipped with a single deep pink to purple flower. The flowers are scentless, 25–50 mm (1.0–2.0 in) across, and produced in the summer months – May to September in the northern hemisphere, November to March in the southern hemisphere.
Each petal bears two or three discontinuous black lines. The five narrow pointed sepals exceed the petals and are joined at the base to form a rigid tube with ten ribs. Leaves are pale green, opposite, narrowly lanceolate, held nearly erect against the stem and are 45–145 mm (1.8–5.7 in) long. Seeds are produced in a many-seeded capsule. It can be found in fields, roadsides, railway lines, waste places, and other disturbed areas.
All parts of the plant are poisonous and contain githagin and agrostemmic acid. It has been used in folk medicine despite the risk of fatal poisoning.
In the 19th century, it was reported as a very common weed of European wheat fields and its seeds were inadvertently included in harvested wheat seed and then resown the following season. It is very likely that until the 20th century, most wheat contained some corn cockle seed. It is susceptible to downy mildew caused by the oomycete species Peronospora agrostemmatis.
It is now present in many parts of the temperate world as an alien species, probably introduced with imported European wheat. It is known to occur throughout much of the United States and parts of Canada, parts of Australia and New Zealand.
In parts of Europe, intensive mechanized farming has put the plant at risk and it is now uncommon or locally distributed. This is partly due to changing patterns of agriculture with most wheat now sown in the autumn as winter wheat and then harvested before any corn cockle would have flowered or set seed. The main reason, however, is that the cereal seed is better cleaned. The plant was believed to be completely extirpated in the United Kingdom until 2014, when a single specimen was found growing in Sunderland by an assistant ranger of the National Trust.
It can be found in fields, roadsides, railway lines, waste places, and other disturbed areas.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight and Soil
It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, which are essential to its health.
Watering
Originating from temperate regions, the common corncockle is adapted to moderate moisture levels in its soil. This species thrives with consistent hydration but can endure short dry spells, exhibiting a balanced water requirement. It prefers watering every week to maintain its health and vigor. Typically grown outdoors due to its hardy nature, common corncockle aligns well with temperate climates where rainfall patterns support its growth cycle without the need for excessive additional watering.
Fertilizing
Providing a common corncockle with high phosphorus fertilizers encourages robust root development and vibrant blooms. For optimal results, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization which can harm common corncockle’s growth. Seasonal adjustments in feeding are crucial; reduce frequency in the dormant winter phase. Practical tip: water common corncockle before fertilizing to prevent root burn. Tailored for varied gardening experience, these guidelines ensure common corncockle’s flourish.
Propagation
A captivating wildflower, common corncockle is typically propagated by sowing seeds directly into the soil. For successful growth, choose a well-draining site with full sun exposure. Prepare the soil by loosening it and creating a fine tilth. Scatter the seeds evenly and cover lightly with soil, as they require good contact but minimal depth to germinate effectively. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, will support germination and seedling establishment. Common corncockle benefits from thinning early on, allowing the remaining plants ample space to develop.
Transplanting
Optimal transplanting time for common corncockle is during its favored season, /’S1’/. This period ensures the most robust growth. Choose a location with full sun exposure for this sun-loving species. Gently firming soil around its base during transplant can support root establishment. Be sure to water adequately, but avoid overwatering.
III. Uses and Benefits
While the common corncockle is a short-lived plant, sprouting in the spring and blooming gloriously in the summer, it adds ornamental value to any garden. The bright purple blooms are not only showy, but also attract bees, birds, and butterflies. This plant is best planted in the beds and borders of wildlife and wildflower gardens.
