The Cornflower

Centaurea cyanus

The Cornflower, the floral symbol of the Steuben Parade , has a significance far beyond the event, with which has become inseparably identified. It is in fact the national emblem of the German-American community. The idea of such an identification goes back many years before the inception of Rothaug, and early member of the Steuben Soceity of America, and a beginning was made at a public event conducted by the Society man years ago. For some reason, the wider application of the practice was never acheived. The cornflower is found in grain fields throughout Germany mingled with the ripening grain and red poppy. Although not a native to America, it can be found in many gardens, especially those of German-Americans. It is also known as "Bachelor's Button" and "Bluebottle".