Common Corn-Cockle

(Agrostemma githago)

Common Corn-Cockle (Agrostemma githago)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Agrostemma githago, commonly known as common corn-cockle, is an annual herb that is native to open fields and farmlands across Europe to the Middle East. It has been introduced to many temperate regions worldwide, often found in grain fields and disturbed sites. The plant typically grows up to 39 inches (1 meter) tall, with narrow, lanceolate leaves and slender stems. From late spring to early summer, it produces showy, scentless pink flowers with distinctive dark purple to black lines on the petals, each bloom measuring 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) in diameter.

Common corn-cockle is appreciated for its attractive flowers and is sometimes used in wildflower gardens or naturalistic plantings. It is also historically significant as a once-common weed in European grain fields. The plant prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It is relatively low-maintenance but can self-seed prolifically, which contributes to its invasive potential outside its native range. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Width: 0.8-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to open fields and farmlands across Europe to the Middle East

Other Names

Common Names: Corn Cockle, Corn Rose, Common Corncockle, Corn-Campion, Corn-Pink, Purple Cockle

Scientific Names: , Agrostemma githago, Agrostemma githago f. exilis, Agrostemma githago f. nicaeensis, Agrostemma githago var. alba, Agrostemma githago var. killiasii, Agrostemma githago var. linicola, Agrostemma githago var. macrospermum, Agrostemma githago var. microcalyx, Agrostemma githago var. minor

GBIF Accepted Name: