Edible Flowers : Helianthus annuus Sparky

Hardy Annual
T&M Exclusive

• Flowers in : Summer
• Germination : Easy
• Aftercare : Easy
• Ideal for : Borders, Children, Cut Flowers
• Special Features : Edible Flowers
• Height : 5 feet

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).

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

Sowing Instructions

Sow thinly 12mm (½in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart 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

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.