About
A sturdy annual to around 1.5m in height, with green foliage. An ideal variety for children to grow in borders or containers, and tolerant of partial shade. Single, black-centred, dark reddish-brown flowers to 15cm across, develop shades of orange as they mature, appearing on dark stems from July to September.
About the genus
Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial, Bedding
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. This plant was included in the RHS Helianthus (sunflower) trial 2024
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or cuttings. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases