25+ Different Types Of Sunflowers
There’s nothing quite like sunflowers to evoke the feeling of summer. These bright, yellow blooms with petals resembling the sun’s rays have a way of revitalizing any outdoor space. Before you start planning your sunflower garden bed for next year, it’s essential to decide on the type of sunflower you want to feature. Believe it or not, there are over 100 species of sunflowers scattered across the globe.
We won’t cover all of them in this post, but we’ll introduce you to some of the most popular varieties available. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of sunflowers, from their symbolism and interesting facts to the diverse range of types that can add a pop of color and vibrancy to your garden.
Sunflower facts
When it comes to sunflowers, there’s more than meets the eye. Did you know that not all sunflowers are yellow? In fact, they can also come in purple and red hues. But what’s even more fascinating is their unique ability to track the sun. Young sunflowers, driven by their circadian rhythm, follow the sun from sunrise to sunset until they reach maturity. And when they do, they take on a new orientation, facing east instead of west.
This subtle change makes them 5 times more attractive to pollinators, highlighting the intricate dance between these plants and their environment. Beyond their captivating visuals, sunflowers also boast impressive therapeutic properties. The oil extracted from their seeds has anti-inflammatory qualities, making it suitable for various applications such as weight loss, skin repair, and rehydration.
Sunflower seeds and sun butter are also packed with Vitamin E and selenium, which have been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering cholesterol levels. The rich history of sunflowers is just as impressive. The first recorded discovery dates back to 3000 BC, predating the domestication of maize or corn. These flowers were native to North America, where they served as a vital food source for indigenous communities around 8,000 years ago.
Interestingly, the sunflower’s head is comprised of thousands of tiny sunflowers, known as ray florets. In more recent times, sunflowers have reached new heights – literally! The tallest recorded sunflower stood at an astonishing 30 feet tall, and its seeds even found their way to space in 2012 when astronaut Don Pettit planted a sunflower bed on the International Space Station.
Meanwhile, back on Earth, the sunflower holds a special place as the national flower of Ukraine and the state flower of Kansas.
Sunflower symbolism
Sunflowers have been shrouded in symbolism for over 8,000 years, with records dating back to the 1800s. As a native American flower, it is deeply rooted in ritual practices, used as a food source, and valued for its medicinal properties. The symbolisms surrounding sunflowers are multifaceted and diverse, reflecting various cultures’ perspectives.
In Greek mythology, sunflowers are linked to the love and betrayal of Apollo, who transformed a grief-stricken princess into a sunflower after she was buried alive by her father. This mythological connection is often associated with sun-based symbolisms such as happiness, loyalty, adoration, and longevity. In China, sunflowers represent vitality and good fortune, making them a popular gift for the third anniversary. For native Americans, sunflowers embody bounty and provision.
In religious contexts, they are tied to spiritual enlightenment, truth, and light, often appearing in places of worship as decorative pieces on robes, crowns, and garments worn by nobility worldwide. Most significantly, sunflowers have become a powerful symbol of hope and peace, having been chosen to represent a nuclear-free world at the 1996 summit.
Since then, sunflower plantings have taken place around old missile bases in Ukraine, as well as Chernobyl, Hiroshima, and Fukushima, serving as a poignant reminder of our collective quest for peace.
25 types of sunflowers
While there exist over a hundred species of sunflowers, this list is designed to assist in narrowing down the ideal selection for your landscape or container arrangements. Whether seeking to enhance the aesthetic appeal or enjoy fresh cut flowers, we’ve compiled 25 diverse types of sunflowers for consideration.
Tall sunflowers
When it comes to trees that reach remarkable heights, the selection within this category is particularly impressive. Measuring in at over 12ft tall, many of these specimens can be classified as hybrids, although native species are also well-represented. If you’re looking for trees that will not only provide a striking visual presence but also serve as effective border and accent plants, then the options within this category should definitely take center stage.
Shweinitz’s sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii)
One of the most elusive American sunflower species, Helianthus debilis is a striking sight. Reaching heights of up to 16 feet, its bright yellow blooms stand out from the crowd. While slightly smaller than your average sunflower, these flowers are easily recognizable by their daisy-like centers and petals, which add a delicate touch to their otherwise bold appearance.
Mammoth Russian sunflower (Helianthus annuus ‘Russian Mammoth‘)
Standing at an impressive height of up to 12ft, these sunflowers are not only one of the tallest species but also among the oldest. Their enormous flowerheads, which can grow quite wide and heavy, are supported by thick, trunk-like stems that provide a sturdy base. While they may be a striking focal point during the summer months, their long-lasting blooms also serve as a reliable food source for birds and squirrels well into the winter season, providing a stable supply of sustenance.
American giant sunflower (Helianthus annuus ‘American Giant‘)
Standing at an impressive height of up to 15 feet, this stunning corner flower boasts a hardy constitution that enables it to thrive in even the most challenging climates. Its robust trunk and exceptional resilience allow it to withstand fierce winds with ease, making it an ideal choice for creating a natural windbreaker or defining a landscape feature in a particularly exposed area.
Sunforest mix sunflower
At maturity, this particular species can stretch up to 15 feet tall, requiring a significant 40-inch spread. To accommodate its full potential, it’s essential to provide at least 4 feet of space between plantings, ensuring optimal growth and development.
Skyscraper sunflower (Helianthus annuus ‘Skyscraper‘)
The majestic sunflower, aptly named due to its impressive stature, can grow up to 14 feet tall with sturdy stalks and substantial flower heads that boast 14-inch petals. The crowning glory of this remarkable bloom lies in its generous center, which resembles an embossed cushion. Additionally, the plant’s robust stalks are specifically designed to thrive in harsh climates, making it a resilient and hardy addition to any garden.
‘Heirloom Titan’ Giant Sunflowers
The Helianthus annuus is a standout variety that can grow up to 14 feet tall, showcasing consistent growth. One of its notable features is its edible seeds, which can be harvested before summer’s end. These seeds can then be dried and stored for a crunchy snack or used as toppings for parfaits and salads during the cold season. Characterized by their bright sunflower yellow blooms and sturdy stalks, this variety also boasts seed-packed centers that add to its visual appeal.
California Greystripe
Many birds and bees have a special affinity for this vibrant bloom, which can grow up to 16ft tall. Its striking appearance features a large flower head adorned with bright yellow petals and a geometrically patterned center, complete with numerous seeds. The plant’s sturdy stems provide support for its impressive stature, making it an attractive focal point in any garden setting.
Dwarf sunflowers
Some annuals are particularly well-suited for containers, providing stunning visual interest as contrast plants or indoor focal points during long summer bloom periods. Many of these varieties boast unique color patterns that can add a pop of excitement to any garden, porch, or patio setting.
Sunny smile sunflower
The annual sunflower variety stands out for its remarkable growth habit, reaching only 2.5 feet in height throughout the entire summer season. As a potted option, it excels with sturdy stalks that are easy to cultivate and ideal for family-friendly landscapes, making it an excellent choice for homes with active pets and children.
Suntastic yellow sunflower
Suntastic sunflowers are notable for producing multiple blooms on a single stem, typically yielding 5-8 flower heads. One of their defining features is the striking contrast between their bright yellow petals and dark, almost black centers. The latter exhibits a subtle embossment and measures approximately 1.5 feet in height.
Little Becka sunflower
One of the most striking varieties is the 1-2ft tall red-haloed sunflower, renowned for its unique petal coloration. As summer reaches its peak, the vibrant orange hue will dominate, eclipsing the typical yellow tones, creating a stunning visual effect. This variety is particularly well-suited for compact landscapes and raised planters, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking to add a pop of color without overwhelming their outdoor space.
Additionally, these sunflowers are pollenless, eliminating any potential allergy concerns.
Pacino sunflower (Helianthus annuus ‘Pacino Cola’)
This flowering marvel produces clusters of blooms, with 4 to 10 flower heads sprouting from a single sturdy stem that grows to be around 12-16 inches tall. Notably, its petals display a lighter yellow hue, while the center features a thoughtful combination of yellow and green, making it an excellent choice for vase arrangements.
Sundance Kid sunflower
The diminutive dwarf sunflower is an ancient breed that has been around for centuries. Characterized by its compact stature, it only reaches a maximum height of 2 feet. Its unique appearance is further enhanced by the soft, fuzzy texture of its custard yellow petals, which are offset by a rich chocolate brown center. As the flower matures, the coloration gradually shifts towards a light red hue.
Teddy Bear sunflower
The ‘teddy bear’ plant boasts a distinctive feature – its remarkably fluffy petals. As a result of this unique characteristic, combined with its edible nature, it’s often utilized as a garnish for naked cakes and salads. Notably, this variety only reaches a height of around 2 feet, is pollen-free, and is renowned for its profuse flowering.
Firecracker sunflower (Helianthus annuus ‘Firecracker’)
This compact sunflower variety falls into the semi-dwarf to dwarf category, reaching heights of approximately 1.5 to 3 feet. Its adaptability to container life is one of its most attractive features, as it thrives in widths ranging from 20-30cm. When the time comes for blooming, this variety produces a stunning array of golden yellow and orange sunflowers, each featuring a prominent dark brown center that adds depth and visual interest.
Topolino sunflower
Despite their modest height of just 2 feet, individual stems of this sunflower variety boast a unique branching characteristic that allows them to produce clusters of small, bright yellow flowerheads. This trait makes them an excellent choice for adding a pop of color to borders or containers.
Colored sunflowers
If you’re looking to add a touch of uniqueness and drama to your outdoor space, consider opting for colored sunflowers. These vibrant flowers offer a striking visual display, with varying heights and bloom colors that can add an exotic flair to your garden.
Earthwalker sunflower
The ‘Earth Toned’ flower is aptly named due to its vibrant display of natural hues. Reaching up to 9ft in height, this remarkable bloom produces multiple flowers throughout the summer months. Its petals are reminiscent of daisies, featuring a striking combination of red, mahogany brown, and rust orange tones. The center of each flower boasts an embossed dark chocolate hue, punctuated by tiny yellow sprinkles that add a touch of whimsy to its overall appearance.
Terracotta sunflower
The Helianthus annuus ‘Sungold’ boasts an unmistakable beauty, showcasing an extraordinary palette of vibrant hues. The intricate blend of orange, clay brown, and red tones on its petals gives rise to an enchanting glow, reminiscent of a bygone era. Standing tall at 5 feet, this sunflower variety creates a stunning visual display during the fall season, captivating all who lay eyes upon it with its rustic charm.
Chianti sunflower
One of the most sought-after varieties of colored sunflowers, ‘Red Sun’ is a stunning choice for floral arrangements and bouquets. Its distinctive, rich red wine hue sets it apart from other cultivars, making it one of the deepest-colored sunflowers available. A bonus feature is its pollenlessness, ensuring minimal mess and discomfort for those with allergies.
At 6ft tall, this variety boasts a striking dark brown center, adding an extra layer of visual interest to its already impressive appearance.
Moulin Rouge sunflower
One of the most striking features of this unique sunflower is its distinctive burgundy red coloration, which remains vibrant and unaltered even when exposed to direct sunlight. This rare beauty has earned it a special place in the world of floristry, where it’s highly sought after for its use in bouquets and vases. Notably, it can grow up to 4 feet in height, making it an impressive addition to any arrangement.
Black Magic sunflower
Evoke a sense of mystery and magic with this unique colored sunflower that captures the essence of gothic charm. Although there is no natural black sunflower, this stunning variety offers a mesmerizing alternative, boasting velvety petals that grow up to 4ft in length and producing no pollen. Its striking appearance makes it an ideal choice for Halloween decorations, special occasion bouquets, or any arrangement where you want to add a touch of enchantment.
Strawberry Blonde sunflower
This flower, much like the Little Becka, boasts a striking halo feature. The petals display a unique blend of whitish yellow, reddish pink, and orange hues, resulting in a captivating halo effect. A dark brown center adds an unexpected pop of contrast, making for a visually stunning combination. Interestingly, each stem yields multiple flower stalks, reaching a modest height of 5ft.
Sunrich Lime sunflower
The Sunflower ‘Lemon Queen’ is a stunning variety that produces a single, large flower head with vibrant lemon-yellow petals surrounding a bright lime-green central disc. This pollenless sunflower is particularly noteworthy for its rapid growth rate, reaching maturity in just 60 days and growing up to 6 feet tall.
Autumn Beauty sunflower
For those seeking to infuse their landscape with the warm hues of sunset and autumn leaves, this sun-loving flower is an ideal choice. Characterized by its vibrant palette, featuring deep yellow tones, rich red shades, rusty orange undertones, and sunny yellow accents, it’s a natural fit for fall gardens. Standing tall at 5ft, it begins to bloom in late summer and continues through mid-fall, providing a reliable source of sustenance for bees and birds during the winter months.
Red Sun sunflower
This stunning sunset flower boasts a striking dark center, surrounded by delicate daisy-like petals that transition seamlessly from warm bronze hues to shimmering shades of gold. Reaching heights of up to 6 feet, each stem produces an abundance of flower heads – typically at least 10 per stem – throughout the entire summer season. As a result, this versatile bloom provides a captivating contrast and radiant warmth when paired with bright-colored flowers in your outdoor landscape.
Ruby Eclipse sunflower
The ‘Source’ variety produces a truly show-stopping bloom, featuring a large, dark brown central disk that resembles an eye scanning the surrounding landscape. This striking flower can grow up to 6 feet tall, with delicate, ruby red and rusty orange petals that boast bright yellow tips for added visual interest. One of its most notable characteristics is its lack of pollen, making it a great choice for those seeking a low-maintenance yet visually stunning addition to their garden.
FAQs on sunflowers
Are purple black sunflowers real?
The Helianthus genus boasts a staggering array of approximately 50 distinct species, each with its unique characteristics. Within this diverse group, you’ll find notable varieties such as the Ruby Eclipse, Chocolate Gold, Claret, and Chianti sunflowers, which offer a kaleidoscope of colors and growth patterns.
Is it normal for sunflowers to fade into purple?
The unique combination of purple pigments on the leaves, stems, and petals of the sunflower provides natural UV protection. This pigment, known as anthocyanin, plays a crucial role in shielding the plant from the intense rays of the sun, making it resistant to burning even during prolonged periods of direct sunlight. This remarkable adaptation allows the sunflower to thrive in its natural environment without compromising its delicate petals and leaves.
How long do sunflowers bloom?
While some species may have a shorter blooming period, typically lasting around two weeks in early summer, others can persist for several months. Some varieties may even extend their bloom time into fall or even early winter. However, it’s worth noting that the entire plant itself can thrive with minimal care and attention, allowing you to enjoy its beauty for an extended period.
What to do with sunflowers after they die?
As the life cycle of sunflowers comes to a close, it’s time to reap what you’ve sown – literally! A telltale sign that harvesting is imminent is the appearance of plump, mature seeds radiating from the center of the plant. To collect these precious treasures, simply snip off the stem just above the soil line with a pair of scissors, then gently tilt the central disc into a container to catch any stray seeds, ensuring they’re safely stored for future use.
Why are my sunflower heads empty?
The causes of an orchid not producing seeds can be diverse, with some species being naturally pollenless playing a significant role. Additionally, factors such as pest infestations leading to inadequate pollination also contribute to the issue.
What are the rarest sunflower species?
For those seeking to cultivate the most elusive sunflowers, a closer look at the following species is essential: Schweinitz’s, often regarded as the rarest of all, is a prime example. Other notable mentions include Black Magic, Shock-O-Lat, Orange Sun, Coconut Ice, Prado Red, Solar Flare, Ms. Mars, Ring of Fire, and Goldie – each offering a unique opportunity to score these highly sought-after blooms.
Where can I buy a sunflower plant?
When it comes to acquiring sunflowers, you’re spoiled for choice. Not only are they widely available in local nurseries, but you can also find a variety of reputable stores that sell them. Some popular options include Grow Joy City, Floral, Lowe’s, and The Home Depot. For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, there are numerous e-commerce platforms that offer sunflower seeds and seedlings.
These include Amazon, Etsy, eBay, as well as specialized stores like Sunflower Selections, Terra Green, American Meadows, Sunflower General, The Sunflower Market, Sunflower Family, and Sunflower Natural.
Conclusion
Beyond their striking appearance, sunflowers offer more than just visual appeal as border plants or focal points in your landscape. With ease of cultivation, varied types, and numerous benefits, it’s no surprise they’ve earned a special place in many people’s hearts. Delve deeper, and you’ll discover the multifaceted significance behind these flowers, making them an enduring favorite among many.
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When it comes to flower delivery, there’s often confusion surrounding the topic of tipping. As you prepare to receive your bouquet or arrangement, do you know whether and how much to tip your floral courier? In this context, a gratuity is a voluntary payment made to show appreciation for services rendered, such as timely and proper delivery.
The amount you choose to tip ultimately depends on the level of service provided by the delivery person, with $5 to $10 being a common range in most regions. However, if exceptional care was taken during the delivery process, you may consider tipping more. On the other hand, if the delivery experience was subpar, a smaller or no tip might be warranted. It’s essential to remember that tipping is always optional and should reflect your satisfaction with the overall service.
