A single Black Boy Bachelor&
A close-up view of Black Boy Bachelor&
Black Boy Bachelor&
A honey bee gathers pollen from a Black Boy Bachelor&
Man holding a bouquet of Black Boy Bachelor&
A single Black Boy Bachelor&
A close-up view of Black Boy Bachelor&
Black Boy Bachelor&
A honey bee gathers pollen from a Black Boy Bachelor&
Man holding a bouquet of Black Boy Bachelor&

Bachelor's Button Seeds,
Black Boy

4.517 ReviewsSKU: #FL162Min. seed count: 150
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Description

(Centaurea cyanus). Lovely, nearly black, glistening flowers are perfect for the old-fashioned cottage garden. This rare heirloom was listed in many seed catalogs in the late 1930s and early 1940s, including the 1939 Geo. J. Ball catalog. Colorful and unique.

Growing Tips: Sow in place in fall or winter (mild winter climates) or early spring where winters are severe. Space plants 6-12 inches. Removing spent blooms prolongs the blooming season. Self-sows freely.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Centaurea cyanus
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
60–80
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
6–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
55–70°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Sow Black Boy seeds in place where the plants are to grow, 1/4 inch deep: in fall or winter in mild-winter climates, or in early spring where winters are severe, as early as 2-4 weeks before your last expected frost. These plants make an early taproot and resent root disturbance, so direct sowing beats transplanting. Bachelor's buttons tolerate light frosts and grow best in the cooler months of spring and fall. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in loose, well-drained soil. Thin seedlings to 6 to 12 inches apart once they develop true leaves. Space generously for airflow, which helps reduce the risk of mildew in cooler climates.

How to Grow

Provide full sun for the best bloom color and stem strength. Water moderately and avoid soggy soil. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage repeat blooming. Plants may self-seed if seed heads are left to mature.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow some blooms to fully mature and dry on the stem
  • Cut dried seed heads and store in a paper bag
  • Shake or crumble heads to release seeds
  • Remove chaff using a mesh screen or by hand
  • Store seeds in a cool, dry, labeled container until next season

FAQ

Can I grow Black Boy bachelor's buttons in containers?

Yes, they do well in containers at least 8 to 10 inches deep. Ensure good drainage and full sun exposure. Compact spacing and deadheading will encourage bushier plants and more prolific blooming.

Will Black Boy bachelor's button reseed naturally?

Yes, this variety readily reseeds under the right conditions. Leave some flower heads to dry in place at the end of the season for self-sowing and potential volunteer plants the following year.

How are Black Boy blooms best used?

Primarily ornamental. Their nearly black, glistening color makes them a standout in the old-fashioned cottage garden and in fresh or dried arrangements, and the blooms hold their color well when dried.

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