Sunflower, Annual (Helianthus annuus)


Sunflower, Annual Plant Features

Big, bold, and beautiful! That's how we describe annual sunflower. This fast-growing, cheerful plant is fun to watch as it develops massive flower heads on stalks that can range from 3 to 6 feet tall. That's why it's a must-have plant for children's gardens and public spaces. Because of its height, annual sunflower looks best in the back of the border, but dwarf varieties will do well in large containers, too. Annual sunflower makes a great cut flower and is as attractive to bees and butterflies as it is to people. In warmer regions annual sunflower will occasionally spread, but this is generally not a problem since songbirds devour most of the seeds. And, of course, the seeds are edible so be sure to harvest some for yourself!

Annual Sunflower Questions?
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Sunflower, Annual Growing Instructions

Plant sunflower in a sunny spot and stand back! These super easy annual flowers will grow quickly with minimal attention from you. However, the plants do prefer a rich, slightly moist soil. Tall varieties may require staking in windy locations to keep the heavy flower heads from toppling the plant.

Although the seeds and oil of annual sunflower are edible, the stems and leaves are not.
  • Water

    Medium water needs

  • Light

    Outside: Sun

  • Colors

    Orange

    Red

    Yellow

  • Special Features

    Attracts butterflies

    Deer/rabbit resistant

    Super-easy to grow


Complement your Sunflower, Annual

Marigold
Tall varieties of Marigold teamed with annual Sunflower will make any sunny border glow.

Salvia, Perennial
Blue Salvia and annual Sunflower make a stunning combination.


Our favorite varieties

Sunfinity Sunflower

Sunfinity Sunflower

Helianthus annuus 'Sunfinity'

The longest-blooming sunflower we've ever seen, Sunfinity continues to produce flowers all summer long. it grows 30 inches tall and wide.