Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
Family: Asteraceae · Genus: Helianthus
The common sunflower is a large annual forb of the genus Helianthus grown as a crop for its edible oil and edible fruits. The plant was first domesticated in the Americas. Sunflower seeds are a common snack food.
Soil Temperature
10°C – 30°C
Spacing
20 – 45 cm
Harvest
10–11 weeks
Sowing
Sow in garden.
Growing Schedule Zone 8b
Sow Indoors Sow Outdoors Transplant Harvest
Jan
Feb
Mar Sow Indoors + Sow Outdoors
Apr Sow Indoors + Sow Outdoors + Transplant
May Transplant
Jun
Jul
Aug Harvest
Sep Harvest
Oct Harvest
Nov
Dec
Companions
Avoid Growing Near
Growing Notes
Sunflowers need full sun and grow best in fertile, well-drained, moist soil with plenty of mulch. Sunflowers do not like to be transplanted so are best grown direct from seed. The giant or Russian varieties are preferred for seed production. Grow to 1 - 2 metres so need staking or protection from the wind. Protect seed heads from birds when ripening with nets or paper bags.
Culinary Hints
Use seeds fresh or toasted or press for oil.