Annuals – Sunflower

Botanical name: helianthus annuus

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: up to 10 ft in height and 3 ft in width

Bloom time: summer, fall

Hardy zone: zones 4-9

Flower color: yellow/orange/red/brown/black

Foliage color: green

Growth rate: reaches full maturity in first growing season

Pruning instructions: deadhead as needed

Propagation methods: cut a stem just below a node and place in water until roots start to emerge

Landscape use: mixed flower beds

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day

Special features: seeds can be harvested and consumed

Watering instructions: allow soil to partially dry between watering sessions

Fertilizing instructions : use 10-10-10 after planting and repeat once a month throughout the growing season

Best time to plant: spring

Best type of soil: loam, sand

Companion plants: basil, marigolds, daisies

Toxicity level: potentially mildly toxic if ingested

Invasive species: no