Helianthus annuus Sparky
Hardy Annual
- Flowers: Summer
- Position: Full sun
- Soil: Well drained
- Height: 5 feet
- Germination: Easy
- Aftercare: Easy
- Ideal for: Border, Children, Cut Flower
Description
Unusual and attractive quilled flowers on multi-headed plants in striking shades of clear yellow and bronze-orange, making a spectacular addition to borders, as well as adding spark and interest to flower arrangements.
Height 120-150cm (4-5 feet).
Sowing Instructions
| Sowing depth: | 12mm (½in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart. |
|---|
Sow thinly in well cultivated soil raked to a fine tilth.
Germination usually takes around 10-21 days.
Growing Instructions
When large enough to handle, thin seedlings to 30cm (12in) apart.
Alternatively sow indoors in late winter/early spring for earlier flowering.
Sow individually into 7.5cm pots at 20-30C (68-86F).
When well grown gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions before planting out after all risk of frost.
Aftercare Instructions
Prefers a well drained soil in full sun.
Kitchen Notes
The green buds before the flower opens are delicious cooked in butter sauce and the seeds make a tasty snack. Write to us for a free leaflet with recipes for a wide range of edible flowers.
