Corncockle (Agrostemma githago) is a tall, graceful annual wildflower with striking magenta-pink blooms and slender, hairy stems. Once a common sight in UK cornfields, Corncockle is now a rarer species due to modern agricultural practices, but remains an excellent choice for adding vibrant colour to wildflower plantings, pollinator borders, and arable rewilding schemes.
Best sown in sunny, free-draining soils, Corncockle grows quickly and provides a burst of summer colour. Its open, nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable inclusion in biodiversity-focused planting schemes.
Features & Benefits
Vibrant magenta flowers with classic wildflower charm
Tall annual that adds structure and seasonal impact
Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
Ideal for arable wildflower strips and rewilding projects
Historically important species reintroduced for conservation
Latin Name:
Agrostemma githago
Flowering Time:
June – August
Flowering Height:
60 – 100 cm
Life Cycle:
Annual
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
13.5kg per acre (33.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Choose a sunny, well-drained site with bare or lightly cultivated soil.
Remove weeds and rake the soil to a fine tilth.
Broadcast seed evenly and lightly press into the surface—do not cover deeply.
Water if conditions are dry during germination.
Ideal for annual wildflower displays, field margins, or heritage restoration.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Attribute Detail
Latin Name Agrostemma githago
Flowering Time June – August
Flowering Height 60 – 100 cm
Life Cycle Annual
Sowing Rate 13.5kg per acre (33.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Full sun, well-drained soil
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Arable rewilding, annual meadows, pollinator strips