Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
Also known as: Sunflower
Tall cheerful flower with edible seeds. Attracts pollinators and birds. Grows quickly in warm weather.
Growing Requirements
Planting Schedule
Direct Sow (Spring)
1–9 weeks after last frost
Germination
7–10 days
Days to Harvest
70–100 days
Zone Suitability
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zones 2–11
Stake tall varieties. Leave seed heads for birds or harvest when back of head turns brown.
Companion Plants
Good Companions (7)
Cucumber
Cucumis sativus
Attracts pollinators and provides structure for vining cucumbers
Confidence: Medium
Zucchini
Cucurbita pepo
Attracts pollinators critical for squash fruit set
Confidence: Medium
Pumpkin
Cucurbita maxima
Attracts pollinators for pumpkin fruit set
Confidence: Medium
Corn
Zea mays
Both attract pollinators; compatible tall-plant planting
Confidence: Medium
Lettuce
Lactuca sativa
Tall sunflowers provide shade for heat-sensitive lettuce
Confidence: Medium
Yellow Squash
Cucurbita pepo var. recticollis
Attracts pollinators needed for squash fruit set
Confidence: Medium
Watermelon
Citrullus lanatus
Attracts pollinators for melon fruit set
Confidence: Medium