Helianthus annuus 'Ms Mars Improved'
sunflower 'Ms Mars Improved'
'Ms Mars Improved' is a compact, branching annual to 60cm tall with purple-flushed, oval to heart-shaped leaves. Flowers up to 15cm across borne from summer into early autumn have very dark centres surrounded by deep pink-red petals the outer tips of which are cream coloured
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Purple | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream Pink Red | Green Purple | ||
| Autumn | Cream Pink Red | Green Purple | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads
- Name status
Not established
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Ideal for growing in containers. The flowers attract bees and other insects, and the edible seeds provide food for birds, especially finches
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division. Divide established clumps every 2-4 years to both increase plants and retain vigour. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
- Cut flowers
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Diseases
May be affected by powdery mildews
Get involved
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.