Centaurea cyanus

Centaurea cyanus, commonly known as cornflower, is a striking annual herb celebrated for its vibrant blue blooms. Beyond its ornamental beauty, this botanical treasure has long been utilized in traditional medicine. It possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable ally for supporting digestive and ocular health.

  • Scientific name: Centaurea cyanus
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Native range: Europe

Taxonomical Classification

This plant, known scientifically as Centaurea cyanus, belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae, it is classified under the order Asterales. Finally, it is a member of the family Asteraceae and falls under the genus Centaurea.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Asterales WCVP
Family Asteraceae WCVP
Genus Centaurea WCVP

Distribution

This plant, known as Centaurea cyanus, exhibits a specific range across the northern reaches of the continent. Its distribution is clearly established throughout various regions of Northern Europe. Specifically, it can be found growing in the landscapes of Denmark and Finland. The species is also documented within the territories of Great Britain and Ireland. Furthermore, its presence extends into the northernmost reaches of Norway.

Region Area Source
Northern Europe Denmark WCVP
Northern Europe Finland WCVP
Northern Europe Great Britain WCVP
Northern Europe Ireland WCVP
Northern Europe Norway WCVP
Northern Europe Sweden WCVP
Middle Europe Austria WCVP
Middle Europe Belgium WCVP
Middle Europe Czechia-Slovakia WCVP
Middle Europe Germany WCVP

Chemicals

Centaurea cyanus has 9 reported phytochemicals identified across 9 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Sesquiterpenes, caryophyllene, centcyamine, cis-centcyamine, cis-moschamine.

Total chemicals
9
Scientific sources
9

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
Sesquiterpenes 1 ★☆☆☆☆
caryophyllene 1 ★☆☆☆☆
centcyamine 1 ★☆☆☆☆
cis-centcyamine 1 ★☆☆☆☆
cis-moschamine 1 ★☆☆☆☆
delta-cadinene 1 ★☆☆☆☆
flavonoids 1 ★☆☆☆☆
moschamine 1 ★☆☆☆☆
tannins 1 ★☆☆☆☆