Annual Pollinator

Corncockle Bianca

Agrostemma githago 'Bianca' — pure white Corncockle selection

£2.35approx. 100 seeds

Pure white form of the British cornfield wildflower — large silky trumpet flowers on slender silver-grey stems, glowing in low evening light. Perfect for moon gardens.

Sowing months
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Height
Up to 90cm
Spread
30cm
Spacing
20cm
Position
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
Grow guide
How to grow Corncockle Bianca
Read the full guide →
About this variety

The pure white form of Britain's lost cornfield flower. Large silky trumpets on slender silver-grey stems, weaving up through whatever grows beside them and swaying in the slightest breeze.

The white has a luminous quality in low light that the magenta species does not, which makes 'Bianca' the one for a moon garden, an all-white border, or a seat you use in the evening. It self-seeds reliably and the offspring stay white if kept away from coloured corncockle.

Every part of this plant is poisonous if eaten, particularly the seed. That is worth knowing before you plant it somewhere children forage. Wear gloves when handling, and site it accordingly. Like most of its relatives it has a sensitive taproot and does best sown direct on poor, well-drained ground.

Plant alongside

Corncockle Bianca pairs beautifully with these cottage garden classics

RHS Plants for Pollinators

This plant has been assessed by the Royal Horticultural Society and recommended as especially beneficial to bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Growing plants like this directly supports UK pollinator populations — something close to our hearts at Salle Moor Hall Farm, where we see the difference a cottage garden full of the right plants can make.

Learn more at RHS.org.uk →