Giant golden heads track the sun on towering stems, feeding bees in flower and finches in seed. One of the most rewarding and fast plants to grow from seed with children.
At a glance
- Plant type: Annual
- Mature size: 2.5 m H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sunflower
Helianthus annuus is an fast-growing annual in the Asteraceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall and 50 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Yellow, orange and red flowers appear in summer and autumn.
Where to grow Sunflower
Sunflower suits warm-temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Sunflower provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sunflower is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Sunflower after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Sunflower in the garden
Sunflower earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, feeding bees and pollinators, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Sunflower with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Sunflower
Plant Sale lists Sunflower as seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sunflower seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.