Overview

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' is a bushy, clump forming annual biennial in the genus Helianthus, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden, flower borders and beds and cut flowers.

About

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' is a cultivar of sunflower within the Helianthus genus, known for its upright, often tall annuals with broad, simple leaves and large daisy-like flower heads. This bushy, clump-forming annual thrives in full sun and prefers a south-facing, sheltered aspect with moist but well-drained loam soil of neutral to alkaline pH. It is deciduous and hardy to UK zone H5. 'Ring of Fire' is suitable for wildlife gardens, cottage and informal gardens, flower borders and beds, and can also be grown for cut flowers. Propagation is by seed or division, with interest in spring.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Helianthus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Annual Biennial
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds, Cut flowers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire'

Propagation
Seed, Division
Pest resistance
Susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire'?

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' need?

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' hardy in the UK?

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire'?

Seed, Division.

More in the Helianthus genus

Browse all Helianthus