Burgundy, mahogany and claret
True red does not exist in sunflowers either, but there are lovely deep shades.
- 'Moulin Rouge' has dark red-mahogany petals and is pollen-free, so it is clean to cut.
- 'Prado Red' is another pollen-free red, with a dark centre.
- 'Claret' carries burgundy petals with a bronze tinge.
- 'Velvet Queen' has velvety red-brown flowers.
How they look
Burgundy sunflowers pair with orange dahlias, golden rudbeckias and tall ornamental grasses. They deepen as they age and often have yellow tips.
Red sunflowers often show different shades on different days, ranging from copper to deep maroon, depending on the light.
Growing in a cool climate
- Sow in April in pots; plant out in late May.
- Put them in the sunniest spot you have.
- Support against wind and shield seedlings from slugs.
- Feed fortnightly once buds show.
If you are growing in pots, use a large container of at least 30 cm and a loam-based compost, because the roots go deep.
Vase life
Cut stems last about seven to twelve days if the water is changed daily. Pollen-free types last longer on a table because they shed less.
Hang a ripe head in a dry shed to save seed for sowing next year, though offspring may not match the parent plant in colour.
Safe for pets
Dogs, cats and horses are not poisoned by sunflower, according to the ASPCA.
