Description

Majestic, multi-branched plants provide gorgeous cut flowers throughout summer. Easy to grow in almost any well-drained soil, and drought tolerant. In areas with a long growing season, sow a new crop every 2–4 weeks up until 3 months before first fall frost for continuous bloom. Due to its intense bee attraction, ‘Lemon Queen’ is the sunflower used in the Great Sunflower Project, a study to gather information about native bee populations. Sunflowers are edible, with a bittersweet flavor. The petals add a pretty pop of color ion salads and desserts. The young, sunflower buds are edible, with a flavor similar to artichoke hearts. They can be grilled, marinated, or sauteed for an unusual appetizer or side dish.

Variety Info

Family: Asteraceae
Type: Sunflower
Native: North America
Hardiness: Annual
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Period: Summer to frost
Plant Dimensions: 5’–7′ tall
Variety Info: Blooms have lemon-yellow petals with a brown center. Plants produce one large main flower, 5″–7″ wide, followed by smaller secondary flowers.
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flower, Drought Tolerant, Heat Tolerant

Sowing Info

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date.
When to Start Inside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date. Sunflowers are senstive to root disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground.
Days to Emerge: 10–15 days
Seed Depth: ¼”–½”
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 18″–24″
Thinning: When 3″ tall, thin to 1 every 18″–24″