A method of igniting a pulverized-coal annular burner flame having an internal back flow region, with the ignition energy being introduced centrally into the interior of the back flow region of the pulverized-coal annular burner flame. The ignition energy for the annular burner flame is furnished by an ignited pulverized-fuel igniting flame or pilot light, which is operated with pulverized fuel having a different coarseness and/or consistency than does the primary fuel. Pulverous ignition fuel is withdrawn from the conduit of the primary fuel stream after an existing pulverizing plant at a location which is advantageous with regard to flow dynamics. The ignition fuel is withdrawn by means of a withdrawal device which is capable of being shut off, with the withdrawal opening thereof being directed in the direction of the primary fuel flow.