Is there a white sunflower?
A pure white sunflower does not exist. The palest varieties are creamy lemon or ivory, such as 'Italian White', which has pale primrose petals around a dark brown centre. Others, like 'Vanilla Ice', mix cream and lemon.
Why they are special
Pale sunflowers look more subtle than the classic gold. They suit wedding bouquets and tables where a softer feel is wanted.
Cream sunflowers were bred from the same wild species as the classic gold ones, so they are just as easy to grow, and they cross happily if grown next to other types.
Sowing and care
- Sow indoors in April and plant out after the frosts, or sow where they are to grow in May.
- Choose a sheltered, sunny site; a warm wall helps in cooler parts of Ireland.
- Pale petals show damage from wind and rain, so tuck them behind a windbreak.
- Slugs love young plants, so use barriers.
- Water well in dry spells.
Seeds can also be saved from ripe heads for sowing next year, although seedlings may not come true to colour if other varieties grow nearby.
Cutting and arranging
Cut in the morning when the petals have just opened. Change the water daily to avoid bacteria. Vase life is around a week.
Strip the lower leaves, which rot in water, and keep the stems out of direct sun. A cool room prolongs the display.
Pets
Cats and dogs are safe around sunflowers in terms of poison, as the ASPCA rates them non-toxic.
