Helianthus annuus
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusHelianthus
Zone4
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Helianthus annuus, commonly known as the common sunflower, is an annual plant in the family Asteraceae, native to North America. It is known for its large, bright yellow flower heads and tall stature. Sunflowers are often grown for their seeds, which are used for food and oil production. They thrive in temperate climates and are a popular choice for gardens and agricultural fields.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Common Sunflower
Sunflower
Helianthus annuus f. annuus
Helianthus annuus f. fallax
Helianthus annuus f. lenticularis
Helianthus annuus f. silvester
Helianthus annuus lenticularis var. aridus
Helianthus annuus subsp. annuus
Helianthus annuus subsp. jaegeri
Helianthus annuus subsp. lenticularis
Helianthus annuus subsp. texanus
Helianthus annuus var. annuus
Helianthus annuus var. apicalis
Helianthus annuus var. basalis
Helianthus annuus var. chrysanthemoides
Helianthus annuus var. convolutus
Helianthus annuus var. coronatus
Helianthus annuus var. dilutus
Helianthus annuus var. flavobasis
Helianthus annuus var. indicus
Helianthus annuus var. latibasis
Helianthus annuus var. lenticularis
Helianthus annuus var. macrocarpus
Helianthus annuus var. niger
Helianthus annuus var. pallescens
Helianthus annuus var. passiflora
Helianthus annuus var. primulinus
Helianthus annuus var. pumilus
Helianthus annuus var. reversus
Helianthus annuus var. revolutus
Helianthus annuus var. ruberrimus
Helianthus annuus var. selene
Helianthus annuus var. semivinosus
Helianthus annuus var. texanus
Helianthus annuus var. tortuosus
Helianthus annuus var. trizonatus
Helianthus annuus var. vinosissimus
Helianthus annuus var. vinosus
Helianthus aridus
Helianthus aridus var. aridus
Helianthus erythrocarpus
Helianthus grandiflorus
Helianthus indicus
Helianthus jaegeri
Helianthus lenticularis
Helianthus lindheimerianus
Helianthus macrocarpus
Helianthus multiflorus
Helianthus ovatus
Helianthus petiolaris
Helianthus platycephalus
Helianthus pumilus
Helianthus tubaeformis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,350
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Sunflowers require full sun and should be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They prefer moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range of humidity levels. Water the plants regularly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.Harvest
Helianthus annuus, commonly known as the sunflower, is typically ready for harvest when the back of the flower heads turn yellow-brown and the seeds are plump and hard. This usually occurs about 90 days after planting. To harvest, cut the flower heads with a few inches of stem attached and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area to allow the seeds to fully mature and dry. Once dry, the seeds can be easily removed by rubbing two heads together or by hand. Ensure to protect the drying heads from birds and rodents.Soil
Sunflowers prefer well-draining loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support their rapid growth. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot, so avoid heavy clay soils that retain water.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer at the time of planting and then every few weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Sunflowers are typically grown directly in the ground or in large containers. If growing in containers, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep to accommodate the plant's root system. Repotting is generally not necessary for annual sunflowers, but ensure the container has good drainage.Propagation
Sunflowers are easily propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the garden after the last frost date, spacing them about 6 inches apart. Thin the seedlings to about 12-18 inches apart once they have grown a few inches tall. Seeds can also be started indoors a few weeks before the last frost and transplanted outdoors.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for sunflowers. However, you can remove spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Deadheading also helps to prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.Toxicity
Sunflowers are non-toxic to pets and humans. All parts of the plant are safe, making them a great choice for gardens where children and pets are present.Additional
Sunflowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to your garden. They can also be used as a natural trellis for climbing plants like beans. Harvest sunflower seeds when the back of the flower head turns brown and the seeds are plump and mature.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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