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Velvet Queen Sunflower

8.95
  • - Height: 6-8 feet
  • - Growing Zone: 2-11
  • - Exposure: Full Sun
  • - Bloom Time: 50 Days after planting
  • - Each 3-Inch Pot contains 1 Velvet Queen Sunflower Plant
Plant Features

Big Smile sunflowers are a striking variety known for their deep red-brown blooms. Standing at a height of 6-8 feet, these sunflowers make a bold statement in any garden with their deep burgundy to orange petals surrounding a dark center. They typically bloom from mid-summer to early fall, offering a beautiful contrast to the more typical yellows and oranges of the season. Velvet Queen Sunflowers are a delight for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and wild birds. These sunflowers are also heat and drought tolerant and prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They are highly valued as cut flowers due to their unique color and long vase life.

Planting Instructions:

  • - Plant in late spring after the last frost date when the soil has warmed

Soil Preparation:

  • - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.5

Watering Specifics:

  • - Once established, water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth

Fertilizer Type:

  • - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time
  • - Supplement with a high-potassium fertilizer once buds begin to form

Pruning and Training:

  • - Stake taller varieties to prevent them from toppling over in strong winds

Additional Pest Management:

  • - Watch for common pests like aphids and caterpillars

Blooming Indicators:

  • - Blooms from mid-summer to early fall

Light Requirements:

  • - Thrives in full sun for best growth and blooming

Temperature Tolerance:

  • - Tolerates heat well but may require more frequent watering during hot spells

Companion Plants for Sunflowers:

  • - Zinnias: Their vibrant colors and upright growth create a striking combination with sunflowers
  • - Squash: The broad leaves of squash plants benefit from the dappled shade provided by tall sunflowers
  • - Cucumbers: These vining plants can climb up sunflowers, saving garden space and providing mutual benefits
  • - Marigolds: Their pest-repelling properties make them a beneficial companion for sunflowers
Attribute name Attribute value
Plant Characteristics
Height Category Tall
Mature Spread 10-12 inches
Habit Upright
Flower Color Burgundy
Foliage Color Green
Attracts Bees, Wild Birds
Features Cut Flowers, Drought tolerant, Heat tolerant
Garden Styles Cottage Garden, Pollinator Garden, Therapeutic Garden
Plant Used for Aesthetic Appeal, Edible, Focal Point, Texture, Thriller
Pet Friendly Yes
Plant Type Open-Pollinated
Tolerates Clay soil, Sandy soil
Critter Resistance Deer Resistance: Medium
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