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AGM plants have been through a rigorous trial and assessment programme. They are:
This plant will provide nectar and pollen for bees and the many other types of pollinating insects.
It is included in an evolving list of plants carefully researched and chosen by RHS experts. Divided into 3 groups these lists, linked below, are maintained by a team of RHS staff and are reviewed annually.
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Other common names common sunflower comb flower
golden golden flower of Peru St Bartholomew's star
Family Asteraceae
Genus Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads
Details H. annuus is a tall, fast-growing annual with broad, oval to heart-shaped, roughly hairy leaves 10-40cm long. In summer it bears huge flowers up to 30cm across with bright yellow petals and dark brownish or purplish centres. The flowers attract bees and the seeds that follow provide food for finches
Foliage Deciduous
Habit Columnar/Upright
Hardiness
All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets
H4
Full Sun
Aspect West-facing or South-facing
Exposure Sheltered
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
MoistureMoist but well-drained
SoilChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
pHAlkaline, Neutral
Ultimate height 2.5-4 metres
Ultimate spread 0.5-1 metres
Time to ultimate height 1 year
Cultivation Grow in a moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Will flower best in a long, hot summer. May need support
Propagation Propagate by seed sown in-situ or in a pots or modules in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types Flower borders and beds Cut Flowers Wall-side Borders Wildlife Gardens Cottage & Informal Garden
Pruning No pruning needed
Pests Can get slugs and snails
Diseases May be affected by powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases
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The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.