Sunflowers make a stunning addition to your garden, along fence lines, or in cut flower arrangements. The big radiant blooms also provide seeds, nectar, and pollen to birds, bees, and other pollinators. Farmers use sunflowers in their pastures as rotation crops, to detoxify the soil, or as a crop to produce sunflower oil and seeds for humans too. The types of sunflowers you plant will determine how you can use them.

Some of the Most Popular Sunflower Names

There are more than 70 species of sunflowers in the world, all of which fall into the genus Helianthus. Some of the most obvious differences between the species are their color, height, and bloom size, but they differ in other ways too.

Among the different types of sunflowers, some are more common, while others are rare. H verticillatus, or the Whorled Sunflower, is a federally endangered species that only grows in the southeastern United States. Schweinitz's sunflowers are another endangered species found along roadsides in the Carolinas. These sunflower species are endangered because of urban development and draining of wetlands.

Sunflowers, in general, are easy to grow. You can plant the seed directly in the soil. The plants are drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and they thrive in bright sunlight. You might decide on a favorite based entirely on its looks. You might also choose a specific sunflower because it matches your end purpose well.

Some sunflowers are annuals, meaning they only bloom once. Others are perennials that return in the spring. Sunflowers practically grow themselves, and they are natural self-sowers. The seeds they produce fall to the ground and grow the next year. The difference is that annuals do not grow back from the roots every spring.

True to their name, the typical sunflowers' season is through summer and into autumn. To extend the growing season until the first frost, sow new plants every few weeks. The species and whether it is an annual or perennial will also determine how long the flowers bloom.

These are some of the most popular sunflower names and the features that make them unique.

1. Common Sunflower – The common sunflower is an annual plant that is widely branching. It is an interesting species because it is a natural hybrid – meaning it originated from the natural hybridization of two other sunflower species. The seeds are widely attractive to wild birds and other wildlife. They are also widely used in food, including breads, salads, and many other dishes.

2. Dwarf Sunflower – Dwarf sunflowers are hybrid perennials that grow well in containers. These smaller versions of the common sunflower typically reach heights between 12 and 48". They grow either indoors or outdoors in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Plant seeds in 6" pots with drainage holes to prevent over-watering. Like larger sunflowers, these smaller versions require 6 to 8 hours of sunshine every day.

3. Midnight Oil Sunflower – This species offers something different from the traditional yellow blooms found on common sunflowers. Midnight oil sunflowers are hybrids that have pink to pinkish-red petals, making them stand out in your garden or flower arrangements. These sunflowers are fairly easy to grow. Provide balanced fertilizer once a month and water regularly. Midnight oil sunflowers can grow as annuals or perennials, depending on your climate.

4. Giant or Tall Sunflower – These impressive sunflowers are perennials native to the eastern United States. The tall stem grows to 12 feet tall and bears numerous small light yellow flower heads. The seeds, leaves, and thinnings are used as livestock feed, while the oil and seed are often used as food.

5. Teddy Bear Dwarf Sunflower – This heirloom sunflower is unique with its gold, puffy blooms. It only reaches up to 4 feet high, but the blooms are 5 or 6 inches across. Not surprisingly, these are a popular choice for children's gardens.

6. Tall Teddy Sunflower – If you like your sunflowers to be tall, this species grows to six feet and has huge 10-inch blooms that are just as fluffy as those on the dwarf version.

7. Italian White Sunflower – These sunflowers grow up to 5 feet tall and produce creamy white blooms with dark centers. The daisy-like blooms are about 4 inches across, and they make a superb contrast in an otherwise colorful garden. They also look great in flower arrangements.

8. Mammoth Sunflower – The mammoth is a giant among sunflower species, reaching up to 12 feet tall with one 10-to-12-inch bloom at the top. The mammoth is an annual heirloom that is one of the most beloved of all the sunflowers' names. It produces lots of large seeds that are high-quality and tasty for you to eat.

How to Plant Sunflower Seeds

Most types of sunflower seeds should be planted after the danger of frost has passed, between March and May. Plant the seeds about an inch deep and 6 inches apart. Read the instructions on the seed packet for precise instructions.

Depending on the type, the plants will grow and reach maturity between 70 and 120 days. Mammoth sunflowers mature within 75 – 90 days, while the Italian White matures in 90 to 110 days.

Sunflowers are at risk of fungal diseases, including powdery mildew and downy mildew. Spray the infected leaves with a general garden fungicide for flowers. Water the plants while they are small and secure larger varieties to prevent them from toppling over.

Sunflowers can brighten any area, whether you choose to stick with one type or mix them up. Once you know how you want to use your sunflowers, choosing the right seed is easy.

Grange Co-op Has All Your Gardening Needs

If you're ready to plant your first sunflower crop, Grange Co-op has what you need to keep your plants healthy and pest-free. Contact us to talk with an expert on choosing the right fertilizer, soil, and fungicide for your garden.