Sunflower Summer Lovin F1 - Helianthus annuus

Helianthus annuus 'Summer Lovin' F1 is a well-branched annual sunflower, quite tall, with numerous cream-coloured flowers, marked and contrasted by rings ranging from burgundy, light brown, and dark brown, around a very dark, almost black centre. Although annual, this plant adds structure to the background of a wildflower bed before being used in 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 vegetable gardens.

Helianthus annuus is none other than the famous sunflower cultivated on a large scale for the oil extracted from its seeds. This large annual plant from the Asteraceae family, domesticated by humans for a long time, has a controversial origin, but it is native to the American continent. The 'Summer Lovin' F1 variety is a new horticultural selection from 2023, with stems that naturally branch out without pinching. The plants, vigorous and bushy, reach a height of 1.80m (6ft) in just 3 months. Each main stem produces numerous lateral branches, each bearing an inflorescence. These are known as head flowers, cream-coloured, adorned with dark rings in shades of brown-purple, and a large dark centre. Flowering occurs from June to September-October. Under the best conditions, it takes 12 weeks from sowing to the start of flowering. 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 have a rough texture. Very visited by pollinating insects, the flowering gives way to seeds that are a delight for birds and certain small mammals.

The 'Summer Lovin' F1 Sunflower thrives in a well-drained, not too dry sunny bed. 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 annual, it is a structuring plant, at home in wildflower gardens or more natural areas of the garden, alongside grasses, thistles, ornamental garlic, Gaillardias, for example. This variety is ideal for bouquets thanks to its numerous flowers and good vase life.

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.

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

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