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Helianthus annuus 'Desire Red'
sunflower
A stunning dwarf sunflower variety boasting innovative russet flowers that captivate pots and borders alike. Its deep, rich red tones...
approx 10 seeds
In stock (delivery within 3-4 working days)
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Plant description
A stunning dwarf sunflower variety boasting innovative russet flowers that captivate pots and borders alike. Its deep, rich red tones make Helianthus ‘Desire Red’ an ideal choice for late summer displays as it reliably produces new blooms on multiple branches well into autumn, complementing its dark green, purple-tinged foliage. As a pollinator magnet, these striking blooms are not only an aesthetic delight but also perfect for wildlife.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Fast-growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Helianthus annuus Desire Red:
Whilst easy to grow, annual sunflowers in exposed situations may require staking or support. Water deeply but infrequently and feed sparingly to avoid prompting leaf growth over flowers. If you wish to harvest the seed, protect flower head with garden fleece to deter squirrels and birds, or cut the head and dry indoors.
Sowing instructions:
Under glass, start them off in late winter by planting the seeds up to 5cm (2in) deep in deep pots or root trainers filled with good seed compost. When large enough to handle, plant outside in spring after gradually hardening off. Alternatively, sow directly into a well-prepared seed bed in spring and thin to 30cm (12in) as they grow. If sowing outside, temporarily cover the bed with a net to protect the seeds from birds, and keep an eye out for slugs and snails when the seedlings emerge.
