Sunflower Sunflower Orange Sun - Helianthus annuus

Helianthus annuus 'Orange Sun' is an annual Sunflower variety that produces enormous double orange flowers resembling giant pompoms. These flowers attract colourful butterflies. In winter, it is its seeds that will allow you to feed some of our most beautiful birds, including the elegant goldfinch. This fast-growing plant is really easy to sow and cultivate in all types of well-drained soils. A star of the summer garden, it makes a beautiful focal point in the background of a tall flower bed. Its flowers are also perfect for creating large spectacular and warm bouquets.

Helianthus annuus 'Orange Sun' is a horticultural selection derived from the Sunflower cultivated on a large scale for the oil extracted from its seeds. This large annual plant from the Asteraceae family has been domesticated by humans for a long time and has a controversial origin, but it is native to the American continent. The 'Orange Sun' selection produces tall plants, reaching a minimum height of 1.40m (5ft) and a diameter of 40-50cm (16-20in). Flowering begins in July-August and continues until September-October if you take care to remove the faded flowers. The inflorescences are magnificent, with 15cm (6in) heads in diameter, fully double in the majority of cases. Under the best conditions, it takes 12 weeks between sowing and the start of flowering. The floral stems are very strong and well-branched, making this variety ideal for cut flowers and oil-rich seeds. The foliage consists of medium green leaves, single, cordate (heart-shaped), alternate, sometimes opposite at the base. They are attached to the stem by a more or less long petiole and are rough to the touch.

Its ease of cultivation, large easy-to-germinate seeds, and reasonable size are very popular with children who are introduced to the joys of gardening. The 'Orange Sun' Sunflower is particularly suitable for ornamental use in large flower beds, but also for decorating chicken coops and vegetable gardens where it will attract many useful animals for the gardener. It only requires sun and soil that is not too dry to flourish with ease. It is a plant with a rustic appearance and, as such, will integrate well into the slightly wild areas of the garden, alongside Cosmos, sainfoin, perennial peas, giant Scabious, cardoons, Baptisias, and more.

Before flowering, the plant optimizes its growth by following the sun's path. This phenomenon called heliotropism has given rise to some of its common names: Heliotrope, Sunflower, Sunflower, Garden Sun.

Sunflower in the kitchen:

The buds, petals, and seeds are edible. Add a few petals to a green salad for colour contrast and their hazelnut flavour. The green buds can be blanched and then sautéed in garlic butter. Their flavor is then similar to that of the Jerusalem artichoke. The flesh of the seed can be eaten raw or roasted.

An ecological asset:
Throughout the summer, the nectar-rich flowers of Sunflowers attract pollinating insects and butterflies to your garden. A good way to improve the ecosystem of your garden and promote the production of fruits and vegetables in your vegetable garden. The oil-rich seeds are particularly appreciated by birds (Parrots, Tits, etc.). At the end of flowering, harvest them to make some happy during the winter scarcity.