Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Sunflowers are among the easiest and most rewarding annuals to grow. They're also some of the tallest, with many varieties producing huge, saucer-shaped yellow flowers that tower over other plants in the border.
Helianthus annuus 'Solar Eclipse' is an unusual looking sunflower. Each flower has a central brown disc flanked by a ring of pure yellow petals with a large splash of red, giving the appearance of a ring of fire. It's ideal for adding height to the border, and makes a good cut flower.
Sow seed in individual 10cm pots of moist seed compost in April to May, cover with cling film and place on a sunny windowsill or greenhouse bench. Remove the cling film once the seeds have germinated, and water plants regularly, allowing the water to drain. Pot on into larger pots with multipurpose compost, before eventually planting outside once all risk of frost has passed.
For best results enrich the soil with plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost before planting out Helianthus annuus 'Solar Eclipse', and water plants regularly. You may need to stake plants in exposed gardens.
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Helianthus ‘Solar eclipse’ and wildlife
Helianthus ‘Solar eclipse’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and has seeds for birds.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is known to attract Birds
Birds
Is known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Helianthus ‘Solar eclipse’ poisonous?
Helianthus ‘Solar eclipse’ has no toxic effects reported.
