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Helianthus annuus 'Firefox'

sunflower

Perfect for pollinators New
Product Image
A splash of fiery colour for the front of a sunny border, this compact sunflower produces cheerful, upward-facing blooms in a striking mix of brick red and golden yellow.

The double flowers have fluffy centres surrounded by finely pointed petals, while the branching plants reach around 40cm (16in) tall, producing successive flushes of colour throughout summer.

Helianthus annuus ‘Firefox’ is a lovely choice for smaller spaces where its bright flowers will also attract bees and other beneficial insects.

The edible petals can be used as a colourful garnish for salads and summer dishes.

How to care for Helianthus annuus Firefox:

Whilst easy to grow, annual sunflowers in exposed situations may require staking or support. Water deeply but infrequently and feed sparingly to avoid prompting leaf growth over flowers. If you wish to harvest the seed, protect flower head with garden fleece to deter squirrels and birds, or cut the head and dry indoors.

Sowing instructions:

Under glass, start them off in late winter by planting the seeds up to 5cm (2in) deep in deep pots or root trainers filled with good seed compost. When large enough to handle, plant outside in spring after gradually hardening off. Alternatively, sow directly into a well-prepared seed bed in spring and thin to 30cm (12in) as they grow. If sowing outside, temporarily cover the bed with a net to protect the seeds from birds, and keep an eye out for slugs and snails when the seedlings emerge.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
0.4m
Eventual spread:
0.4m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Fast-growing

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

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Seed Packets (only)£2.99

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