Seeds Giant Sunflower - Helianthus annuus

Helianthus annuus – Giant Sunflower

Origins and characteristics

Native to North America, the sunflower (Helianthus) was domesticated for its oil‑rich seeds and its majestic stature. The “giant” variety is particularly suited to vegetable gardens and sunny areas. It attracts bees, birds and pollinating insects while visually structuring the space.

Description and particularities

The giant sunflower develops a strong, upright stem that can reach 2 to 3 m, and even 4 m in fertile soil. Its foliage is broad, bright green and rough to the touch. The spectacular flowering begins in July and continues until October: a dark brown central disc surrounded by radiant yellow petals, turning with the sun (heliotropism).

• Adult height: 2 to 4 m
• Width: 30 to 50 cm
• Habit: Upright, robust
• Foliage: Dark green, rough, deciduous
• Flowering: July to late September
• Hardiness: Not hardy (annual plant)
• Botanical family: Asteraceae

Sowing and cultivation

• Sowing period:

• Under cover: March to April
• Direct sowing: mid‑April to mid‑May

• Sowing depth: 2–3 cm
• Spacing: 40 to 60 cm in all directions
• Germination: 7 to 14 days depending on temperature
• Substrate: Light garden soil, universal potting mix, compost

Exposure and soil

• Exposure: Full sun essential
• Soil: Rich, deep, well‑drained
• Tolerates ordinary soils but responds well to fertile, humus‑rich soil
• Watering: moderate but regular during growth, especially in drought

Flowering and harvest

• Flowering period: July to October
• Flowers: Yellow, large (up to 30 cm diameter), very attractive to pollinators
• Seed harvest: September to October, when petals have fallen and seeds darken
• Seed uses:
• Human consumption (roasted, raw, in granola)

• Bird and poultry feed
• Artisanal oil production

Garden tips

• Companion planting: strong stems can support climbing beans, peas or cucumbers
• Planted at the edge of the vegetable garden: creates a natural windbreak
• Ideal for field edges or educational gardens: easy, fast and spectacular

Variety advantages

• Very fast‑growing and impressive
• Long, highly nectar‑rich flowering
• Edible, nutrient‑rich seeds
• Can be used as a natural support in sustainable gardening
• Suitable for family, educational or decorative use

Cultivation advice

• Do not transplant too late: sunflowers dislike root disturbance
• Hill up the base slightly to stabilise tall stems
• Provide a stake in strong winds, especially in exposed areas
• Let flower heads dry on the plant for seed harvest

Helianthus annuus, or Giant Sunflower, is a bright, easy and generous plant combining beauty, usefulness and biodiversity. Ideal in a sunny vegetable garden, it offers food, spectacle and structure while supporting garden wildlife.

Seeds for 6 m²