This may be a blend of shorter varieties, but it's not short on selection. Large and small classic sunflowers, and multi-petaled pom-pom types will brighten your garden, draw pollinators, and make cheery bouquets to embellish your indoor spaces. Branching, drought-tolerant plants will be loaded with sunny yellow blooms from summer to fall. Great in containers or as a short, annual hedge. Fantastic first-time flower for your little elves—oops!—kids to grow! Sunflowers are edible, with a bittersweet flavor. The petals add a pretty pop of color on salads and desserts. The young, sunflower buds are edible, with a flavor similar to artichoke hearts. They can be grilled, marinated, or sauteed for an unusual appetizer or side dish.

Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus

Family: Asteraceae

Native: North America

Hardiness: Annual

Plant Dimensions: 16"–24" tall

Variety Information: 4"–6" wide bright yellow and golden, single and double flowers, some with dark centers.

Exposure: Full sun

Bloom Period: Summer to frost

Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flower, Drought Tolerant, Good for Containers, Heat Tolerant

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date.

When to Start Inside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date. Sunflowers are senstive to root disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground.

Days to Emerge: 10–15 days

Seed Depth: ¼"–½"

Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 6"–9"

Thinning: When 3" tall, thin to 1 every 6"–9"