Start growing
Needs massive amounts of full sun. Stalks may need support in windy areas. High water needs.
GROW SOMETHING WONDERFUL
Sunflower Seeds In A Cup® Grow Kit
Helianthus annuus
From the first seed to the next new leaf. Explore your plant’s growing conditions, seasonal rhythm, and everyday care.
THE PLANT NOTEBOOK
Sunflower care, from seed onward.
- Botanical name
- Helianthus annuus
- Common names
- Common Sunflower
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Genus
- Helianthus
- Species
- H. annuus
Growing with your kit
The Seeds In A Cup® kit allows kids to document 'Solar Tracking' – measuring the flower's movement each hour.
Propagation
By seed (very easy).
Seasonal growth & harvest
Can grow from seed to 10 feet in just 90 days. Seeds are ready when the back of the head turns yellow-brown.
Growing conditions
Sunny prairies, fields, and open plains.
Weather & tolerances
Highly heat and drought tolerant once established.
Pests & plant health
Birds, squirrels, and Sunflower rust.
Plant safety
Safe and highly nutritious.
Botanical features
A fast-growing annual with massive yellow-seeded heads. Known for 'Heliotropism' (turning to follow the sun).
Varieties
‘Mammoth Grey Stripe’ (Giant), ‘Teddy Bear’ (Dwarf).
Garden & everyday uses
Edible seeds and oil. essential bird food. iconic giant ornamental
Native range & distribution
Native to North America.
Conservation
Secure; critical for supporting pollinators and birds.
Name origins
Greek ‘helios’ (sun) and ‘anthos’ (flower); named for its solar resemblance.
History
The only major global food crop to originate in the North American Great Plains.
TURN KNOWING INTO GROWING
Your next beginning, in a cup.
Seeds In A Cup® grow kits matched to sunflower.
Seed Germination Kit
Sunflower Seed Starter Grow Kit
USD 10.99
100 in stock
Helianthus annuus
7-14 daysView kit →
THE GROWING CONVERSATION
Questions grow here.
Have a question about sunflower? Ask Buddy below or contact our team.