Sunflower, Twilight Zone (not dwarf variety)

Sunflower, Twilight Zone (not dwarf variety)    Ornamental sunflower "Twilight Zone" (Helianthus annuus) is medium tall variety (apprx 3 feet) that sprouts branched stems. Large flower heads that have 4-5" in diameter appear on the top of each forking. Flowers take on intriguing, attractive colouring. The red-brown centre is surrounded by a ring of golden-yellow, red or brown-striped ray flowers. These inflorescences bloom until October.

The ornamental sunflower "Twilight Zone" looks great on borders, both single and in groupings, as well as in rows alongside fences. It might be grown for cut flower. The wiltering inflorescences and seeds become bird fodder in autumn. Sunflower blooms may heal fever that accompanies colds and flu, support digestion and milden swells and bruises in form of compresses. Sunflowers are also valued melliferous plants.

Sow "Twilight Zone" sunflower seeds from April until May to the permanent site, 2 - 3 per hole in 12 x 20" spacings. You may also sow under covers in April to prepare sunflower seedlings, then transplanted to the field in May in 12 x 20" spacings. Ornamental sunflower should grow on sunny, warm, wind-sheltered sites (for example alongside high fences or building walls) with fertile, moist soils.