Tall plant with large flowerheads that attract bees and butterflies, bringing movement and colour to the garden. The seedheads have a lovely tactile quality and the seeds are edible.
Purpose: sunflower seeds are big enough to be easily planted, making a good gardening activity. Seedheads can be saved to use as bird feeders.
Sensory appeal
Sight
Large, brightly coloured flowers
Touch
Seedheads
Taste
Edible seeds and petals
Quick facts
Height
2.5-4m
Spread
0.5-1m
Flower colour
Yellow, orange, rusty red
Season of interest
Summer – autumn
Plant type
Flower
Hardiness
Hardy
Life cycle
Annual
How to grow
Start from
Seed in spring
Light
Full sun
Soil
Moist but well-drained
Planting distance
10-60cm apart
Care and maintenance
General
Start from seed planted in pots in summer. Plant out well-established seedlings – slugs can be a problem with smaller plants. Allow the seedheads to dry on the plant and use as bird feeders. Save some seed to replant in spring
