A striking native annual, Corncockle brings rich pink, star-shaped flowers and upright stems to wildflower meadows and garden borders, adding height, structure and a distinctive pop of colour.
Also known as corn pink, zizany, corn campion or githage, this historic arable wildflower was introduced to the UK during the Iron Age. Once common in cornfields, it has now become increasingly rare due to modern agricultural practices.
Corncockle has long carried a sense of symbolism and folklore - even appearing in Shakespeare’s Coriolanus, where it is referred to as “the cockle of rebellion”. Its bold character and resilience have made it a quiet emblem of defiance and natural beauty.
Easy to grow and fast to establish, it produces strong stems that are well suited to naturalistic planting and occasional cutting for informal arrangements.
- Native annual with vivid pink star-shaped flowers
- Also known as corn pink, zizany, corn campion and githage
- Historic arable wildflower, now increasingly rare
- Adds height and structure to meadow planting
- Easy to grow and quick to establish
- Suitable for wildflower mixes and naturalistic borders
- Strong stems ideal for informal cut flowers
A characterful and storied wildflower, bringing colour, history and a touch of the unexpected to your garden.
Corncockle Wildflower Seeds by Seed Revolution
Cheap and Easy Method:
Scatter the seeds directly onto bare soil. Clear the area of any debris and lightly rake the soil to create a loose surface. Evenly broadcast the seeds, then lightly rake again to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
More Involved Method:
Use a terram membrane to suppress unwanted vegetation. Add a layer of soil over the membrane, sow the seeds evenly, and press them in gently.
When to Plant
Plant Corncockle seeds in the spring (March to May) or early autumn (September to October).
Where to Plant
Corncockle thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight.
Watering Schedule
Maintain consistent moisture in the soil during the establishment phase. Once established, minimal watering is required.
Blooming Period
Corncockle blooms from late spring through summer (May to August).
Expected Plant Height
Corncockle typically grows to a height of 30 cm to 90 cm. (approx. the same as a hunched alpaca).