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Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
Desert Sun
FlowerHelianthus annuus
- Full sun
- Zones 2–11
- 65 days to maturity
- Flowers
- 18" spacing
- Moderate water
- Annual
Overview
Vigorous plants and strong stems support high-quality bicolor blooms. Rich red petals shift to lemon and gold hues at the petal edges. 5-7" wide blooms. 18-24" long stems are very straight and strong for use as cut flowers. Pollenless. Branching. Compared to Strawberry Blonde, Desert Sunrise is slightly later to bloom and with a flower color that is richer and more vibrant. Edible Flowers: Flower buds can be fried and the petals used as a garnish in salads and desserts; the flavor is bittersweet.
Planting
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost; transplant after frost danger passes
Growing
Sun: full. Water: moderate. Space plants 18" apart. Germination: 7-14 days.