Helianthus annuus

Common Name: Common Sunflower

Description: The Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a fast-growing annual plant celebrated for its large, vibrant yellow flower heads and edible seeds. Typically reaching heights between 1.5 to 3 meters, some cultivars can grow even taller. The plant features coarse, hairy stems and broad, coarsely toothed leaves. Sunflowers thrive in full sun and prefer fertile, moist, well-drained soils. They are drought-tolerant once established and can adapt to various soil types, including poor soils. Blooming from late spring through summer, sunflowers are not only visually striking but also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Their seeds are a valuable food source for birds and can be harvested for human consumption or oil production. 

Form:

• Shrub - Large

Mature Size:

• Height: Approximately 1.5–3 meters
• Width: Approximately 0.6–1.2 meters

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Late Spring
• Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:

• Bright Yellow with Dark Centers

Key Attributes:

• Attracts Pollinators
• Edible Seeds
• Drought Tolerant
• Suitable for Hedging
• Bird Attracting

Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and animals.

Companion Plants:

• Corn (Zea mays)
• Beans (Phaseolus spp.)
• Squash (Cucurbita spp.)
• Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
• Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)