Now you do not have to wait for the black bachelor buttons to emerge from the mix. Centaurea cyanus ‘Black Gem’ produces ruffled, darkest maroon blooms that look almost black in the garden, creating a rich, dramatic contrast against its fine foliage with a silvery cast. Blooming from spring through summer, this easy annual brings moody cottage garden charm with very little fuss.

Also known as Black Gem Bachelor Button or cornflower, this variety is wonderful in cutting gardens, meadow-style plantings, pollinator borders, and sunny mixed beds. The deep wine-colored flowers are fabulous in bouquets, especially with pale pinks, creams, blues, silvers, and airy grasses. Growing about 2' tall and 1' wide, it slips easily into small spaces while still making a bold color statement.

Plant Centaurea cyanus ‘Black Gem’ in full sun with well-drained soil. It is easy to grow, beautiful for cutting, and may self-sow where happy, returning with more dark little treasures next season. Explore more classic cottage garden favorites in our Centaurea - Bachelor Buttons collection.