Helianthus annus- Sunflower Valentine

Helianthus annus - Sunflower Valentine

Pot size:  Deep 4 inch, 6 pack

The Valentine variety of sunflower has lemon yellow, 3-4 inch blooms on multi-branched plants.  The blooms have yellow petals around a dark chocolate colored center and draw pollinators like crazy. This plant stays in bloom several weeks longer than most sunflowers.  The stems are sturdy and make excellent long lasting cut flowers.

Annual ornamental

Days to maturity: 75-90 days

Size: Grows 4 to 6 feet tall. 

Water: Medium (heavy feeder; will suck nutrients from other surrounding crops)

Sun: Full sun (6+ hours daily); very heat tolerant

Other Notes and Uses: These sunflowers provide a dramatic statement to any sizeable garden.  Removing the main stem when the plants are 12- 18 inches tall will encourage side branches with long stems.  While the plant is bushier and shorter, pinching will delay flowering by one to two weeks.