Helianthus annuus
A real American heirloom with a rich history, named for the Arikara tribe who inhabited the Great Plains. Very tall, vigorous plants product gorgeous large flowers and edible seeds. Song birds and pollinators adore these flowers.
Light | Full sun |
Bloom time | Summer |
Plant spacing | 1 foot |
Planting depth | 1/2 inch |
Days to germination | 8-10 |
Plant height | 5-10 feet |
Gardener’s Notes: Sow directly in the garden in spring when night temperatures stay above 50F (10C). Plant 1/2 inch deep in well-drained soil, spacing seeds 4 inches apart. When seedlings reach 3 inches tall, thin them to 1 foot apart, so these big plants have room to grow. Sunflowers grow best when watered regularly throughout the season. cut flowers often to prolong bloom, Easy and fun to grow with children.