Remarks

One of North America's favorite annuals. There is much variety in size and colors of flowers, ranging from yellow, golden, orange, red/orange, red and mahogany. The plants themselves can vary from 3-4 feet to 8 feet or more. Seeds sown in springtime will be insure blooms in late summer or fall. Great for cut flowers.

Although most sunflowers planted by seed are annuals, there are some perennial sunflowers, such as Helianthus maximilianii, the Maximillian sunflower native to the Midwest and Southwest (invasive in the garden, low water-use), and H. x multiflorus, a mid height flower to 3-4 feet with dark green foliage, a pass-along plant (medium water-use).

Use in Garden

Native plant garden, Western cottage garden, edible garden, cutting garden. Great source of food for birds.

Maintenance

Large sunflower varieties may require staking. Take care not to overwater.