Edible Flowers : Helianthus annuus Italian White

Hardy Annual

• Flowers in : Summer
• Germination : Easy
• Aftercare : Easy
• Ideal for : Bedding, Borders, Children, Cut Flowers
• Special Features : Edible Flowers
• Height : 4 feet

Description

Boldly contrasting, big creamy white flowers with deep chocolate centres. Excellent for flower arranging and great at back of borders or against a tall wall where they provide atmosphere and contrast. Flowers summer. Height 4-5ft.

Culinary note: Some parts of these flowers are edible. For more details about edible flowers click here.

Sowing Instructions

Sow early spring to early summer outdoors where they are to flower. Prepare the ground well and rake to a fine tilth before sowing. Sow 12mm (½in) deep in rows 45cm (18in) apart. Germination usually takes approximately 21 days.

Growing Instructions

When large enough to handle thin out to 45cm (18in) apart.

Aftercare

They prefer a sunny open site but will grow in most sites and soils.

Kitchen Notes

The green buds before the flower opens are delicious cooked in butter sauce and the seeds make a tasty snack.