Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Real Men Sow
Sunflowers are more than just a novelty to grow in the summer. Helianthus, the annual sunflower, Helianthus anumus, and many other cultivars are all part of the genus Helianthus. There are also many other perennial and annual species in Helianthus. Some of these species can be grown as vegetables, such as the Jerusalem artichoke Helianthus tuberosus.
Small Sunflower Heads
Sunflowers are wonderful cut flowers. If you are growing them for their flowers, cut off the tips of each plant at 20cm. This will result in many smaller flower heads than one large flowerhead.
Don’t forget to plant some sunflower heads when you are growing them. The nectar and pollen will be enjoyed by the bees in large numbers, while the sunflower seeds will be appreciated by the garden birds in the autumn.
Sunflower growing conditions
Sunflowers, like their name implies, love the sun so plant them in the best spot. Just before they flower, give them a good watering and a little bit of tomato feed.
Rare Types Of Sunflowers
Giant Sunflowers
Many sunflowers vie for the title “tallest sunflower”. Monty Don’s giant sunflower trial saw ‘Pike’s Peak’ win the title of tallest sunflower, rising to a staggering 2.93m. You can also grow ‘Russian Giant and ‘American Giant’ large cultivars.
Helianthus ‘Black Magic’
Helianthus Black Magic is a rich, red-chocolate-colored sunflower. You can also grow ‘Ruby Sunset’ and ‘Moulin rouge’, which are similar cultivars. Beautiful cut flowers and border plants.
Helianthus ‘Lemon Queen’
The ‘Lemon Queen,’ a perennial sunflower variety, is very popular. This is a great choice for growing in a sunny area, as it can grow to 2m high. Check out these eight essential border daisies to plant.
Helianthus ‘Orange Sun’
This beautiful cultivar features ruffled flower heads. It’s great for cutting flowers and sensory gardens. Orange Sun will grow to 1.5m tall. You could also plant similar cultivars such as ‘Teddy Bear” and ‘Starburst Lemon Eclair”.
Helianthus ‘Stella Gold’
The ‘Stella Gold’ flower heads are surrounded by a halo made of spidery-ray flowers. Meanwhile, the small flowers in the middle are dark chocolate. This cultivar is suitable for planting in borders with dahlias, as it can grow up to 2m high.
Helianthus ‘Shock-o-Lat’
The outer flowers of “Shock-o-Lat” are a rich chocolate brown with a yellow fringe. They’re very striking. The ‘Solar Eclipse,’ however, is a similar variety but can grow up to 2.5m taller. You might also like the similar-colored dwarf variety, ‘Solar Flare.
Jerusalem Artichokes
Jerusalem artichokes, which are not like the unopened flower heads (Cynara, Globe Artichokes), are tuberous roots of Helianthus Tuberosus. They are dug up just like potatoes. This perennial species is well-suited for growing in the UK because it enjoys cooler climates.
