Helianthus annuus Sonja seeds - Annual sunflower

Sunflower or Helianthus annuus 'Sonja' is a well-branched variety, of rather modest size, with numerous golden yellow flowers slightly tinged with orange around a brown centre. Although an annual, this plant adds structure to a rustic flowerbed before being cut for pretty bouquets. Easy to sow and grow in the sun, in all types of well-drained soil. Use it in ornamental gardens as well as in vegetable gardens. 'Sonja' is an award-winning Fleuroselect variety.

Helianthus annuus is none other than the famous sunflower cultivated on a large scale for the oil extracted from its seeds. This tall annual plant of the Asteraceae family, domesticated by humans for a long time, has a controversial origin, but it is known to be native to the American continent. The 'Sonja' variety is an old horticultural selection. The vigorous and bushy plants reach a height of 1 m in just 3 months. Each main stem produces numerous lateral branches, each bearing an inflorescence. These are flower heads, ranging from orange-yellow to a large brown centre. Flowering occurs from June to September-October. Under the best conditions, there are 12 weeks between sowing and the start of flowering. The foliage consists of medium green, simple, cordate (heart-shaped), alternate leaves, sometimes opposite at the base. They are attached to the stem by a longer or shorter petiole and feel rough to the touch. Highly visited by pollinating insects, the flowering gives way to seeds that are food for birds and some small mammals.

The 'Sonja' Sunflower thrives in flowerbeds, preferably towards the back, in the sun and in well-drained, not too dry soil. In the vegetable garden, it brings its ornamental qualities and possibly a bit of shade. It is easy to sow and grow, ideal for introducing children to gardening. Although an annual, it is a structuring plant, at home in rural gardens or wilder areas of the garden, alongside grasses, thistles, ornamental garlic, gaillardias, for example. This variety is modest enough in size to be planted in a pot. It is ideal for cutting thanks to its numerous flowers and good vase life.

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

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, then sautéed in garlic butter. Their flavour is similar to that of Jerusalem artichoke. The seed kernel 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 great way to improve the ecosystem and promote fruit and vegetable production in your vegetable garden.
The oil-rich seeds are particularly enjoyed by birds (Parrots, Tits, Doves, Goldfinches, Siskins, Nuthatches, Finches ...). After flowering, harvest them to feed some during the winter shortage period.