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 a 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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Sunflower does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Sunflower after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, maintenance 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
Sunflower sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Sunflower
Plant Sale lists Sunflower as seed. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sunflower seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
