Cornflower blue, named after the vibrant wildflower Centaurea cyanus, embodies the gentle beauty of European summer meadows and rural landscapes. During the Renaissance period, it became a symbol of nature's delicate beauty and youth. Traditional folklore associates cornflower blue with loyalty and faithfulness, particularly in German culture where it represented hope and love. Modern color psychology recognizes cornflower blue as a hue that promotes tranquility and mental clarity, while its soft yet distinct appearance makes it particularly effective in creating calming environments.
The digital representation of cornflower blue is defined by its hex code #6495ED, which produces its characteristic soft, luminous blue tone. RGB values of R:100, G:149, B:237 create this color through additive light mixing, ideal for digital displays and web design. Professional printers achieve cornflower blue using CMYK values of C:57%, M:37%, Y:0%, K:0%, ensuring accurate color reproduction in physical media. Its specific wavelength range falls within the blue spectrum at approximately 450-485 nanometers, contributing to its distinctive appearance and calming effect on viewers.
Other related colors to cornflower: