Flower Library
Sunflowers
Helianthus annuus · Asteraceae
Sunflowers are high summer in plant form. We carry them from July through early October — mostly from German and Dutch fields. Today there are also deep, almost bordeaux varieties (‘Black Magic', ‘Procut Red Lemon').
- Season
- June – July – August – September – October
- Vase life
- 7–12 days
- Latin name
- Helianthus annuus
- Colors
- Yellow, Orange-red, Bordeaux, Cream
There are single (one row of petals around the dark center) and double (teddy-bear style) varieties. Pollen-free strains are now standard — they don't stain tablecloths.
Sunflowers handle plenty of water and last a long time — a cut sunflower easily reaches 10 days. The key is a firm stem; soft sunflowers signal poor storage at the supplier.
Peak season is August and September. For a summer wedding without a strict palette, sunflowers paired with pampas grass produce a beautiful, honest look.
Is Sunflowers toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Non-toxic
- Cats
- Non-toxic
- Dogs
- Non-toxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs — sunflowers are on the ASPCA's list of non-toxic plants. Larger amounts of plant material may still cause an upset stomach.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut stems at an angle, strip lower leaves.
- 02Fill the vase generously — sunflowers drink a lot.
- 03Change water every 2–3 days.
- 04They tolerate deep water — unlike tulips.
- 05Keep cool, out of direct sunlight (paradoxical but true).
Frequently asked
- Does sunflower pollen stain?
- Old varieties yes — today the cut flower trade almost exclusively uses pollen-free sunflowers. If you see pollen on the center, wipe it gently.
- Are sunflowers available year-round?
- Via imports yes, but at lower quality. We recommend buying sunflowers in the German season from July through October.
- Are sunflowers toxic to cats or dogs?
- No. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses by the ASPCA. If a pet nibbles the stem or leaves it may get a mild stomach upset, but it is not dangerous.
- How long do sunflowers last in a vase?
- Fresh sunflowers from the German season usually last 7 to 12 days. The keys are a firm stem, plenty of fresh water and a cool spot out of direct sun.