Description
Heirloom Beauties has something for every sunflower lover—sunny yellows of 'Lemon Queen', beautiful warm tones of 'Autumn Beauty', and deep reds of 'Velvet Queen'. Multiple branching plants produce a multitude of blossoms for a generous amount of cut flowers and lots of pollinator activity all summer long. Excellent drought-tolerant hedge or screen. Leave some seed heads standing in the winter as a treat for the birds. Sunflowers are edible, with a bittersweet flavor. The petals add a pretty pop of color ion salads and desserts. The young, sunflower buds are edible, with a flavor similar to artichoke hearts. They can be grilled, marinated, or sauteed for an unusual appetizer or side dish.
Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus
Family: Asteraceae
Native: North America
Hardiness: Annual
Plant Dimensions: 5'–8' tall, 2' wide, multi-branched
Variety Information: LEMON QUEEN: 5″–7″ wide, lemon yellow. AUTUMN BEAUTY: 5″–8″ wide in autumnal shades of orange, yellow, gold, and maroon bi-colors. VELVET QUEEN: 4″–6″ wide crimson/rust red.
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Period: Summer to frost
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flower, Drought Tolerant, Heat Tolerant
When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date.
When to Start Inside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date. Sunflowers are sensitive to root disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground.
Days to Emerge: 10–15 days
Seed Depth: ¼”–½”
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 18″ – 24″
Thinning: When 3″ tall, thin to 1 every 18″–24″
65 seeds.