Sunflower Fire Fox - Helianthus annuus

Helianthus annuus 'Fire Fox' is an annual plant with fast growth that does not exceed 40 cm high. It is particularly suitable for container gardening, but can easily be integrated into a flower bed or a flower border. All summer long, it is covered with numerous unique flowers, yellow with an orange centre. This is an easy-to-sow and grow dwarf sunflower, in the sun.

From the Asteraceae family, everyone knows Helianthus annuus, well known for the famous oil extracted from its seeds, sunflower oil. The 'Fire Fox' variety stands out for its small size, perfect for container gardening, low flower beds, or borders. Despite being dwarf, this variety is still floriferous. The flowering usually starts in June and can continue until October. It takes the form of heads with yellow petals and an orange centre. Some petals extend beyond the central pompom. Under the best conditions, it takes 60 to 70 days between sowing and the start of flowering. The floral stems are short, sturdy, and well-branched. They bear dark green, simple, heart-shaped leaves.

It is an easy plant to sow and then cultivate. It likes the sun and a soil that is not too dry and well-drained. It is a rather water-hungry plant. Water it regularly. In case of wind, stake the stems.

Helianthus Fire Fox is perfect for decorating a balcony or a vegetable garden, where it attracts many beneficial insects for gardeners. It will go perfectly with cosmos Rubenza in carmine red, Lemonade sweet pea, or even Burgundy blanket flower for a rustic and flamboyant look.