What Is The National Flower of Estonia?
Cornflower is the national flower of Estonia.Centaureacyanus is the scientific name of Cornflower.That comes from the Asteraceae. In 1967-68, the Wildlife Protection Society of Estonia has arranged vote for choosing a flower that to be adopted as national flower of Estonia. The blue cornflower has unbelievably wins the crown by defeating lot of native and colorful flowers like Roses of all variety, Lilies of all variety, Sunflower, Irises, Orchid, Carnations and Daisy.
Due to the popularity, nice decorative appearance, attractive and choice full for gift purposes, the state body designated the Cornflower as the national flower of Estonia in 1988. It is also the national flower of Germany. This eye-catching blue-violet bloom became symbolic of Germany during the 19th century due to its color, Prussian blue.
During this time in Germany, it was customary for unmarried men and women to converse their marital status by wearing the flower in their buttonholes. It is available in excess amount throughout the country. Moreover it is the symbol of Estonian political party (Finnish Party). It is famous for its unique uses and beauty.Estonia’s national flower Blue Cornflower is considered as a romantic and inspirational flower.
Facts about Estonia’s National Flower (Cornflower)
- Common Name: Cornflower
- Genus: Centaurea
- Species: C. Cyanus
- Found in: All over the country of Estonia.
- Color: Intense or bright blue and many other shades of blue.
- Number of petals: more than 50
- Time of blooming: June to September
- Purpose: Decorative and Medicinal
- Symbolism: Romanticism, social liberalism.
Cornflower is the national flower of Estonia. In the past it often grew as a weed in cornfields (in the broad sense of the word “corn”, referring to grains, such as wheat, barley, rye, or oats), hence its name. The national flower of Estonia, cornflower is a herbaceous plant that belongs to family Asteraceae and Centaurea as a genus. It is an annual growing flower with grey-green branch stems. It can grow from 16 inches to 35 inches tall. The leaves of the flower can grow from 1 cm 4 cm long. The flowers of this species are 1.5 cm to 3 cm in diameter and its color is intense blue or deep blue. The blue pigment is protocyanin. Protocyanin is an anthocyanin that is responsible for the red color of roses but in cornflower it gives a blue color. The gorgeous blue flowers of this plant are used for decorative purposes in bouquets, hair ornaments, and corsages.
This flower has a nickname “bachelor’s button” and it refers to old practice of some men to wear cornflower in one of the buttonholes on their suit when they are in love or when they are ready for courting. In folklore, cornflowers were worn by young men in love; if the flower faded too quickly, it was taken as a sign that the man’s love was not returned.These stunningly beautiful cornflowers are not only famous for their beauty, they are also well known for their health benefits and medicinal properties.
The most commonly known use of cornflowers is the ability to revive tired eyes and ease eye strain. A tablespoon of fresh petals into a cup of boiling water allowed to steep for five minutes and then cooled completely makes for a great eye lotion. Cornflower contains biotin that helps in strengthening the nails, prevents and treats nail infections, and treats hair problems like dandruff. Cornflower also produces edible flowers that have cucumber-like taste and this edible flower can be used for culinary decoration, for example to add color to salads.Cornflowers have been used and prized historically for their blue pigment. Cornflower is often used as an ingredient in some tea blends and herbal teas, and is famous in the Lady Grey blend of Twinings.
To sum up, Cornflower is the official national flower of Estonia. Because of its magnificent beauty, medicinal properties and the connection to national history, no wonder it is the most deserving flower to be held as a national flower of Estonia.
Reference:
www.softschools.com/facts/plants/cornflower_centaurea_facts/2175/
