bachelor's button
Noun: 1. A common name for the flowering plant Centaurea cyanus, also known as cornflower. It is an annual plant native to Europe and Asia, widely cultivated for its showy flower heads, typically in shades of blue, but also purple, pink, or white. 2. A common name for the flowering plant Gomphrena globosa, also known as globe amaranth. It is a tropical American annual herb cultivated for its clover-like flower heads in colors such as rose, red, or purple, which retain their color when dried.
The term "bachelor's button" is used to refer to specific ornamental plants, primarily by their common names in gardening and floristry. * The classic blue bachelor's button is a favorite in cottage gardens. * She planted bachelor's buttons for their vibrant color and ability to attract butterflies. * For the dried arrangement, we used bachelor's buttons (globe amaranth) because they hold their shape and color perfectly.
- As a symbolic flower: Historically, the cornflower () was worn by young men in love; if the flower faded quickly, it was taken as a sign that their love was not returned. This is the likely origin of the name "bachelor's button."
- Cornflower: The most common name for , especially in Europe.
- Globe Amaranth: The most common name for .
- Boutonniere: A floral decoration worn by men, for which these small, round flowers are sometimes used. (Note: This is a related concept, not a synonym for the plant itself).
- For : Cornflower, bluebottle.
- For : Globe amaranth, globe flower.
This word has two distinct botanical meanings, referring to two different plant species. The intended meaning is usually clear from context: 1. Temperate Climate Flower: When discussing classic European/American garden flowers, especially blue ones, it typically means Centaurea cyanus (cornflower). 2. Dried/Floristry Flower: When discussing flowers used in dried arrangements or tropical plants, it typically means Gomphrena globosa (globe amaranth).
- tropical American herb having rose to red or purple flowers that can be dried without losing color
- an annual Eurasian plant cultivated in North America having showy heads of blue or purple or pink or white flowers